Pak PM rushes to Beijing for 3rd meet with China's Xi Jinping in a year. Watch this video to know more in detail.

Pak PM rushes to Beijing for 3rd meet with China's Xi Jinping in a year

Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan met Chinese President Xi Jinping&nbsp;on Wednesday and discussed bilateral relations and matters of mutual interests. 
 
According to Dawn, the Prime Minister's Office in a statement said that Khan briefed Xi about the current situation in the country, and said that Pakistan has come out of the difficult economic situation and will never forget China's financial cooperation in this regard. 
 
"We will never forget China's financial cooperation in this regard," he was quoted as saying, adding that China had helped Pakistan without "any conditionality". 
 
Imran Khan thanked China for providing Pakistan with the opportunity to come out of a very difficult economic situation and appreciated Beijing's support under the China Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) framework. 
 
"Pakistan and China are all-weather friends and strategic cooperative partners", he said. 
 
The Chinese president lauded Khan for speaking on China-Pakistan relations during UN General Assembly's session last month, Geo News reported. 
 
Khan who is on a two-day visit to Beijing will also meet with Chairman of the National People's Congress today, besides attending the closing ceremony of Beijing International Horticultural Exhibition 2019. 
 
Khan's visit comes just days before Xi's scheduled visit to India and Nepal on October 11-13. 
 
On Tuesday, Khan had held bilateral talks with Chinese Premier Li Keqiang at the Great Hall of the People in Beijing. 
 
The meeting revolved primarily around the strengthening of bilateral economic partnership. During the meeting, Pakistan and China, both agreed to strengthen socio-economic ties, along with signing a number of agreements and Memoranda of Understanding (MoUs). 
 
It should be noted that despite Khan's top of the voice chant over internationalising Kashmir, Beijing, just ahead of Xi's visit to India, has apparently softened its stance over the issue and voiced that a dialogue may be a "way forward" to resolve the downgraded ties between the two neighbours.

Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan met Chinese President Xi Jinping on Wednesday and discussed bilateral relations and matters of mutual interests. According to Dawn, the Prime Minister's Office in a statement said that Khan briefed Xi about the current situation in the country, and said that Pakistan has come out of the difficult economic situation and will never forget China's financial cooperation in this regard.

Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan met Chinese President Xi Jinping on Wednesday and discussed bilateral relations and matters of mutual interests. According to Dawn, the Prime Minister's Office in a statement said that Khan briefed Xi about the current situation in the country, and said that Pakistan has come out of the difficult economic situation and will never forget China's financial cooperation in this regard. "We will never forget China's financial cooperation in this regard," he was quoted as saying, adding that China had helped Pakistan without "any conditionality". Imran Khan thanked China for providing Pakistan with the opportunity to come out of a very difficult economic situation and appreciated Beijing's support under the China Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) framework. "Pakistan and China are all-weather friends and strategic cooperative partners", he said. The Chinese president lauded Khan for speaking on China-Pakistan relations during UN General Assembly's session last month, Geo News reported. Khan who is on a two-day visit to Beijing will also meet with Chairman of the National People's Congress today, besides attending the closing ceremony of Beijing International Horticultural Exhibition 2019. Khan's visit comes just days before Xi's scheduled visit to India and Nepal on October 11-13. On Tuesday, Khan had held bilateral talks with Chinese Premier Li Keqiang at the Great Hall of the People in Beijing. The meeting revolved primarily around the strengthening of bilateral economic partnership. During the meeting, Pakistan and China, both agreed to strengthen socio-economic ties, along with signing a number of agreements and Memoranda of Understanding (MoUs). It should be noted that despite Khan's top of the voice chant over internationalising Kashmir, Beijing, just ahead of Xi's visit to India, has apparently softened its stance over the issue and voiced that a dialogue may be a "way forward" to resolve the downgraded ties between the two neighbours.

Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan discusses bilateral issues with Chinese President Xi Jinping

PM Modi-Xi Jinping to officially meet on 11th-12th October in Mamallapuram, Chennai for an informal summit. India-China advancing cooperation in various fields. China appraises ties with India. Let's know why Mamallapuram is chosen for 2nd Indo-China informal summit.

Why was Mamallapuram chosen for 2nd Indo-China informal summit?

In this report of WION know, why the Chinese President Xi Jinping is suffering a crisis of confidence?

Why Chinese President Xi Jinping suffering a crisis of confidence?

Xi Jinping is not the first Chinese to visit Mamallapuram, Chennai for the informal summit. Watch this report to know more.

Xi Jinping is not first Chinese to visit Mamallapuram, Chennai for the informal summit

Hong Kong's under-fire leader Carrie Lam said Tuesday she would not rule out accepting <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/bear-consequences-for-your-actions-chinese-soldiers-issues-warning-to-hong-kong-protesters-254129">help from mainland China</a> in tackling increasingly violent pro-democracy protests.&nbsp;

The financial hub has been gripped by four months of rallies, and last weekend saw much of the city grind to a halt as <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/chinese-soldiers-in-hong-kong-warn-protesters-as-emergency-rules-fail-to-quell-unrest-254107">masked demonstrators took to the streets in defiance of a controversial ban</a> on face coverings.

Lam's decision last Friday to invoke colonial-era emergency powers -- not used for half a century -- to impose the ban sparked some of the most violent scenes since the crisis began, as hardcore protesters trashed dozens of subway stations, vandalised shops with mainland China ties, built fires and blocked roads.

As much of the<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/with-metro-still-partially-functioning-hong-kong-opens-for-business-after-violent-clashes-254366"> city returned to work after a three-day weekend</a>, Lam told reporters that while she believes the city's authorities can cope with the unprecedented troubles, China could be called upon if the situation becomes "so bad".

"At this point in time, I still strongly feel that we should find the solutions ourselves. It is also the position of the central government (in Beijing) that Hong Kong should tackle the problem on her own.

"But if the situation becomes so bad, then no options can be ruled out if we want Hong Kong to at least have another chance."

Watch: Hong Kong - protesters continues to defy face mask ban

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Mask ban backlash

Lam has faced widespread criticism over her decision to ban face masks -- ubiquitous in Hong Kong since a deadly SARS outbreak in 2003 -- and thousands of Hong Kongers flouted the prohibition during an unsanctioned mass march on Sunday.

So far two people -- a male university student and a 38-year-old woman -- have been charged with illegally wearing masks, and supporters wore their own face coverings during a court appearance on Monday.&nbsp;

The two were charged with unlawful assembly, which carries up to three years' jail time, and with defying the mask ban, which has a maximum one-year sentence. Both were released on bail.

Lam told journalists it was "too early" to say whether the anti-mask law was effective or not.&nbsp;

"I'm sure you'll agree that for any new policy or new legislation, it will take time to be effectively implemented," she said.

Lam also would not be drawn on a suggestion by one of her cabinet members, the veteran pro-Beijing politician Ip Kwok-him, that <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/hong-kong-cabinet-member-floats-internet-curbs-to-contain-unrest-254254">Hong Kong may curb access to the internet</a> in a bid to contain the protests.

The leader insisted she was "very committed" to using political, legal and policy instruments, including dialogue, to address some of the "deep-seated problems" in the city.&nbsp;

Thirteen of the city's subway stations remained closed on Tuesday following the widespread vandalism and the operator said the entire network would close at 8pm (1200 GMT).&nbsp;

According to Hospital Authority figures, ten of the 13 people admitted to hospital over the weekend were in a stable condition on Tuesday while three had been discharged.

'Humane solution'

US President Donald Trump on Monday urged a "humane solution" in Hong Kong but noted that the crowds protesting against Chinese authorities were smaller than before.

"We just want to see a humane solution," Trump said in comments to reporters. "I think they have to do that in a peaceful manner."

He remarked on the "great people over there" and said, "they're flying the American flag."

But Trump avoided expressing support for the protesters' unprecedented show of defiance against Chinese communist rule and questioned whether they were losing steam.

At the start, "I saw two million people. I've never seen anything like it," Trump said. "The crowd size is much smaller now, so maybe that's saying something."

&nbsp;

Hong Kong's under-fire leader Carrie Lam said Tuesday she would not rule out accepting help from mainland China in tackling increasingly violent pro-democracy protests.

Hong Kong's under-fire leader Carrie Lam said Tuesday she would not rule out accepting help from mainland China in tackling increasingly violent pro-democracy protests. The financial hub has been gripped by four months of rallies, and last weekend saw much of the city grind to a halt as masked demonstrators took to the streets in defiance of a controversial ban on face coverings. Lam's decision last Friday to invoke colonial-era emergency powers -- not used for half a century -- to impose the ban sparked some of the most violent scenes since the crisis began, as hardcore protesters trashed dozens of subway stations, vandalised shops with mainland China ties, built fires and blocked roads. As much of the city returned to work after a three-day weekend, Lam told reporters that while she believes the city's authorities can cope with the unprecedented troubles, China could be called upon if the situation becomes "so bad". "At this point in time, I still strongly feel that we should find the solutions ourselves. It is also the position of the central government (in Beijing) that Hong Kong should tackle the problem on her own. "But if the situation becomes so bad, then no options can be ruled out if we want Hong Kong to at least have another chance." Watch: Hong Kong - protesters continues to defy face mask ban × Mask ban backlash Lam has faced widespread criticism over her decision to ban face masks -- ubiquitous in Hong Kong since a deadly SARS outbreak in 2003 -- and thousands of Hong Kongers flouted the prohibition during an unsanctioned mass march on Sunday. So far two people -- a male university student and a 38-year-old woman -- have been charged with illegally wearing masks, and supporters wore their own face coverings during a court appearance on Monday. The two were charged with unlawful assembly, which carries up to three years' jail time, and with defying the mask ban, which has a maximum one-year sentence. Both were released on bail. Lam told journalists it was "too early" to say whether the anti-mask law was effective or not. "I'm sure you'll agree that for any new policy or new legislation, it will take time to be effectively implemented," she said. Lam also would not be drawn on a suggestion by one of her cabinet members, the veteran pro-Beijing politician Ip Kwok-him, that Hong Kong may curb access to the internet in a bid to contain the protests. The leader insisted she was "very committed" to using political, legal and policy instruments, including dialogue, to address some of the "deep-seated problems" in the city. Thirteen of the city's subway stations remained closed on Tuesday following the widespread vandalism and the operator said the entire network would close at 8pm (1200 GMT). According to Hospital Authority figures, ten of the 13 people admitted to hospital over the weekend were in a stable condition on Tuesday while three had been discharged. 'Humane solution' US President Donald Trump on Monday urged a "humane solution" in Hong Kong but noted that the crowds protesting against Chinese authorities were smaller than before. "We just want to see a humane solution," Trump said in comments to reporters. "I think they have to do that in a peaceful manner." He remarked on the "great people over there" and said, "they're flying the American flag." But Trump avoided expressing support for the protesters' unprecedented show of defiance against Chinese communist rule and questioned whether they were losing steam. At the start, "I saw two million people. I've never seen anything like it," Trump said. "The crowd size is much smaller now, so maybe that's saying something."

Hong Kong 'won't rule out' Chinese help over protests: Leader Carrie Lam

Pakistan PM Imran Khan Makes His Third Visit To China In A Year Ahead Of Modi-Xi Second Informal Summit Chinese President Xi Jinping is due to travel to India to hold an informal summit with Indian PM Modi. But Imran Khan has rushed to China. What is he doing in China now? What is the Pakistan Army Chief doing in Beijing?

Gravitas: Before Modi-Xi Summit In India, Imran Rushes To Beijing

Xi Jinping Is Suffering A Crisis Of Confidence Trade war with the U.S., pro-democracy protests in Hong Kong, economic slowdown, detention of Uighurs, this is the most challenging phase in Xi Jinping's political career. This report explains.

Gravitas: The Most Challenging Phase In Xi Jinping's Political Career

Hong Kong opened for business on Tuesday after a <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/hong-kong-cabinet-member-floats-internet-curbs-to-contain-unrest-254254">violent long weekend</a>, with its metro rail system only partially functioning and authorities warning residents they may have trouble commuting due to widespread vandalism of infrastructure.

The Chinese-ruled city braced for more demonstrations through the week and <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/nba-rockets-executive-says-hong-kong-tweet-not-meant-to-offend-254149">embattled leader Carrie Lam</a> was due to address the media at a weekly news conference on Tuesday morning after the most violent clashes in around four months of anti-government unrest.

The protests, which show no sign of abating, pose the biggest popular challenge to Chinese President Xi Jinping since he came to power in 2012.

Two teenage protesters have been shot, one in the chest and the other in the leg, during skirmishes with police in some of the recent violence.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/bear-consequences-for-your-actions-chinese-soldiers-issues-warning-to-hong-kong-protesters-254129">Hong Kong's metro</a>, which carries about 5 million passengers a day, said on Tuesday some stations would not open for service because damaged facilities needed to be repaired. Train service would also end at 8 pm (1200 GMT), more than four hours earlier than normal.

MTR Corp was forced to shut down in an unprecedented move after arson attacks on Friday night and only partially operated during the weekend, with protesters again setting stations ablaze and destroying ticketing machines. The closures largely paralysed transportation around much of the Asian financial hub.

The Hong Kong government said in a statement early on Tuesday "a large group of masked rioters repeatedly committed destructive acts extensively", including "dropping a bicycle from height" that hit and injured a police officer. Roads were also blocked in various districts, it said.

ATMs, Chinese banks and scores of shops were vandalised during violent protests over the long weekend, some of which drew tens of thousands of people. Many restaurants and malls closed early over what is typically a very busy holiday period.

That followed the decision by authorities to impose a ban on face masks, which protesters use to protect their identity, on Friday under colonial-era emergency powers.

Residents awoke on Tuesday to anti-police graffiti and streets littered with broken bricks and metal barricades from weekend clashes, during which police fired tear gas, rubber bullets and water cannon to subdue petrol bomb-throwing protesters.

The protests have plunged the former British colony into its worst political crisis in decades and are taking a growing toll on Hong Kong's economy, hitting its important tourism and retail sectors as it faces its first recession in a decade.

What started as opposition to a now-withdrawn extradition bill has grown into a pro-democracy movement against what is seen as Beijing's increasing grip on the city, which protesters say undermines a "one country, two systems" formula promised when Hong Kong returned to Chinese rule in 1997.

China dismisses such accusations, saying foreign governments, including Britain and the United States, have fanned anti-China sentiment.

The ban on face masks inflamed protests and angered many Hong Kongers who fear a further erosion of their civil liberties.

Hong Kong opened for business on Tuesday after a violent long weekend, with its metro rail system only partially functioning and authorities warning residents they may have trouble commuting due to widespread vandalism of infrastructure.

Hong Kong opened for business on Tuesday after a violent long weekend, with its metro rail system only partially functioning and authorities warning residents they may have trouble commuting due to widespread vandalism of infrastructure. The Chinese-ruled city braced for more demonstrations through the week and embattled leader Carrie Lam was due to address the media at a weekly news conference on Tuesday morning after the most violent clashes in around four months of anti-government unrest. The protests, which show no sign of abating, pose the biggest popular challenge to Chinese President Xi Jinping since he came to power in 2012. Two teenage protesters have been shot, one in the chest and the other in the leg, during skirmishes with police in some of the recent violence. Hong Kong's metro, which carries about 5 million passengers a day, said on Tuesday some stations would not open for service because damaged facilities needed to be repaired. Train service would also end at 8 pm (1200 GMT), more than four hours earlier than normal. MTR Corp was forced to shut down in an unprecedented move after arson attacks on Friday night and only partially operated during the weekend, with protesters again setting stations ablaze and destroying ticketing machines. The closures largely paralysed transportation around much of the Asian financial hub. The Hong Kong government said in a statement early on Tuesday "a large group of masked rioters repeatedly committed destructive acts extensively", including "dropping a bicycle from height" that hit and injured a police officer. Roads were also blocked in various districts, it said. ATMs, Chinese banks and scores of shops were vandalised during violent protests over the long weekend, some of which drew tens of thousands of people. Many restaurants and malls closed early over what is typically a very busy holiday period. That followed the decision by authorities to impose a ban on face masks, which protesters use to protect their identity, on Friday under colonial-era emergency powers. Residents awoke on Tuesday to anti-police graffiti and streets littered with broken bricks and metal barricades from weekend clashes, during which police fired tear gas, rubber bullets and water cannon to subdue petrol bomb-throwing protesters. The protests have plunged the former British colony into its worst political crisis in decades and are taking a growing toll on Hong Kong's economy, hitting its important tourism and retail sectors as it faces its first recession in a decade. What started as opposition to a now-withdrawn extradition bill has grown into a pro-democracy movement against what is seen as Beijing's increasing grip on the city, which protesters say undermines a "one country, two systems" formula promised when Hong Kong returned to Chinese rule in 1997. China dismisses such accusations, saying foreign governments, including Britain and the United States, have fanned anti-China sentiment. The ban on face masks inflamed protests and angered many Hong Kongers who fear a further erosion of their civil liberties.

With metro still partially functioning, Hong Kong opens for business after violent clashes

Mahabalipuram, a historically important place during the Pallava Empire, is all set to welcome Chinese President Xi Jinping on October 11 for his second informal meeting with Prime Minister Narendra Modi. 
Advertisement

The two leaders had held the first informal summit in Wuhan last year, which significantly helped normalise the turbulent bilateral relationship in the aftermath of the 73-day Doklam crisis. President Donald Trump’s trade war with China and his administration’s decision to increase tariffs on Indian goods, has also generated the prospect of improvement in relations between New Delhi and Beijing.

This became evident when China agreed to address India’s concern about the increasing bilateral trade deficit, deciding to take measures to increase import of rice and sugar and accelerate the process of review and approvals of Indian pharmaceuticals and agricultural goods.

However, China’s promise in this regard proved only rhetoric, with the trade deficit having touched US$ 57.86 billion in 2018. Moreover, India’s exports to China declined by 1.62 per cent to reach $7.70 billion in the first six months of 2019. While economic and trade issues have been a major bone of contention between the two sides, recent developments have added to the rising tensions. India’s decision to abrogate Article 370 and divide the Indian state of Jammu &amp; Kashmir into two union territories: Jammu &amp; Kashmir and Ladakh, has not gone down too well with the big dragon.

China’s position on the Kashmir issue is clear and consistent, a Chinese government spokesperson said, adding that it is a legacy of history between India and Pakistan, which it says is also the consensus of the international community. China also expressed its opposition to India’s move to create a separate Union Territory of Ladakh, saying that there are areas of dispute between the two nations which, according to Beijing, affects China’s territorial integrity and sovereignty.

Beijing even went to the extent of raising this issue at the General Assembly and the Security Council of the United Nations, miserably failing to garner any favourable response of the world community.

While India strongly responded to China’s attempt to interfere in its internal matter, the global community became sharply aware of how strongly China was trying to protect Pakistan, a breeding ground for terrorists.

In August, the armed forces of China and Pakistan held the Shaheen-VIII air force joint exercise. And, just before Jinping’s India visit, Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan will be in China to boost bilateral strategic ties.

China’s expanding presence in South Asian countries also has serious ramifications for India’s security. This is why over the last five years, the Modi government has taken all possible efforts to improve ties with its neighbours.

The recent opening of the oil pipeline between India and Nepal will have a profound impact on cementing relations between the two friendly countries.

Another stumbling block between India and China is the long-standing border dispute. While both the countries have reaffirmed their commitment to resolve this problem through peaceful means, China’s assertive posturing against India along the border in the recent times has underscored their real intent.

While Arunachal Pradesh is an integral part of India, Beijing - referring to it as South Tibet - puts its claim over the state. In turn, when the Indian armed forces have just concluded “Him Vijay” – the biggest ever mountain combat exercise, China has objected to such exercises, putting a big question mark over the outcome of the upcoming meeting between Modi and Xi.

The expanding ties between India and the US and Modi’s government’s decision to endorse the Trump administration’s Indo-Pacific strategy have also created an impression in China about India becoming part of a larger US containment policy towards it.

While it is logical for India and China to compete with each other, as the two aspire to play a pivotal role in shaping the geo-strategic direction of Asia, it must be backed by peace, security, development and prosperity. One can only hope that during his upcoming visit, President Xi will make some concrete announcements to boost bilateral ties between the two nations. 
 
&nbsp;

(This article was originally published on The DNA. Read the <a href="https://www.dnaindia.com/analysis/column-from-wuhan-to-mahabalipuram-under-the-shadow-of-kashmir-2795438">original article</a>)

(Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL) &nbsp; 
&nbsp;

&nbsp;

Mahabalipuram, a historically important place during the Pallava Empire, is all set to welcome Chinese President Xi Jinping on October 11 for his second informal meeting with Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

Mahabalipuram, a historically important place during the Pallava Empire, is all set to welcome Chinese President Xi Jinping on October 11 for his second informal meeting with Prime Minister Narendra Modi. Advertisement The two leaders had held the first informal summit in Wuhan last year, which significantly helped normalise the turbulent bilateral relationship in the aftermath of the 73-day Doklam crisis. President Donald Trump’s trade war with China and his administration’s decision to increase tariffs on Indian goods, has also generated the prospect of improvement in relations between New Delhi and Beijing. This became evident when China agreed to address India’s concern about the increasing bilateral trade deficit, deciding to take measures to increase import of rice and sugar and accelerate the process of review and approvals of Indian pharmaceuticals and agricultural goods. However, China’s promise in this regard proved only rhetoric, with the trade deficit having touched US$ 57.86 billion in 2018. Moreover, India’s exports to China declined by 1.62 per cent to reach $7.70 billion in the first six months of 2019. While economic and trade issues have been a major bone of contention between the two sides, recent developments have added to the rising tensions. India’s decision to abrogate Article 370 and divide the Indian state of Jammu & Kashmir into two union territories: Jammu & Kashmir and Ladakh, has not gone down too well with the big dragon. China’s position on the Kashmir issue is clear and consistent, a Chinese government spokesperson said, adding that it is a legacy of history between India and Pakistan, which it says is also the consensus of the international community. China also expressed its opposition to India’s move to create a separate Union Territory of Ladakh, saying that there are areas of dispute between the two nations which, according to Beijing, affects China’s territorial integrity and sovereignty. Beijing even went to the extent of raising this issue at the General Assembly and the Security Council of the United Nations, miserably failing to garner any favourable response of the world community. While India strongly responded to China’s attempt to interfere in its internal matter, the global community became sharply aware of how strongly China was trying to protect Pakistan, a breeding ground for terrorists. In August, the armed forces of China and Pakistan held the Shaheen-VIII air force joint exercise. And, just before Jinping’s India visit, Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan will be in China to boost bilateral strategic ties. China’s expanding presence in South Asian countries also has serious ramifications for India’s security. This is why over the last five years, the Modi government has taken all possible efforts to improve ties with its neighbours. The recent opening of the oil pipeline between India and Nepal will have a profound impact on cementing relations between the two friendly countries. Another stumbling block between India and China is the long-standing border dispute. While both the countries have reaffirmed their commitment to resolve this problem through peaceful means, China’s assertive posturing against India along the border in the recent times has underscored their real intent. While Arunachal Pradesh is an integral part of India, Beijing - referring to it as South Tibet - puts its claim over the state. In turn, when the Indian armed forces have just concluded “Him Vijay” – the biggest ever mountain combat exercise, China has objected to such exercises, putting a big question mark over the outcome of the upcoming meeting between Modi and Xi. The expanding ties between India and the US and Modi’s government’s decision to endorse the Trump administration’s Indo-Pacific strategy have also created an impression in China about India becoming part of a larger US containment policy towards it. While it is logical for India and China to compete with each other, as the two aspire to play a pivotal role in shaping the geo-strategic direction of Asia, it must be backed by peace, security, development and prosperity. One can only hope that during his upcoming visit, President Xi will make some concrete announcements to boost bilateral ties between the two nations. (This article was originally published on The DNA. Read the original article) (Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL)

Kashmir shadow looms large over Narendra Modi-Xi Jinping meet

Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan is in China on a 3-day visit to discuss issues of regional and bilateral significance, including the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC).

During his visit, the Pakistan PM will hold separate meetings with Chinese President Xi Jinping and Premier Li Keqiang.

Pakistan Army Chief General Qamar Javed Bajwa is accompanying Khan on the visit and will be meeting the Chinese military leadership.

Bajwa will also join Imran Khan for his meetings with the political leaders.&nbsp;

Now, General Bajwa's presence during political engagements has become all-pervasive.

Some experts call it a soft coup by the Pakistani army.

Once again, every important decision in Pakistan has the stamp of the armed forces.

Bajwa had accompanied Imran Khan during his maiden visit to the United States. He was there during his UNGA speech where Imran spoke about India and Kashmir but failed to garner any support against India.

General Bajwa is also a member of all-powerful Pakistan's development council.

Recently, Bajwa met business leaders in Pakistan to address economic issues facing Pakistan's economy — something, usually, a civilian government would do.

General Bajwa's presence alongside Imran Khan, during his meetings with foreign dignitaries at international forums,&nbsp;is a clear indication of the fact that the Pak army wants a decisive say in the country's foreign policy.

Pakistan is going through an unusual period in which the democratically elected government and the army appear to be working in sync.&nbsp;

But General Bajwa's meeting with Pakistan's business leaders and his presence in the all-important meeting in China indicates that the Pakistani army has lost all faith in Khan after his failure at the UNGA.

Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan is in China on a 3-day visit to discuss issues of regional and bilateral significance, including the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC).

Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan is in China on a 3-day visit to discuss issues of regional and bilateral significance, including the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC). During his visit, the Pakistan PM will hold separate meetings with Chinese President Xi Jinping and Premier Li Keqiang. Pakistan Army Chief General Qamar Javed Bajwa is accompanying Khan on the visit and will be meeting the Chinese military leadership. Bajwa will also join Imran Khan for his meetings with the political leaders. Now, General Bajwa's presence during political engagements has become all-pervasive. Some experts call it a soft coup by the Pakistani army. Once again, every important decision in Pakistan has the stamp of the armed forces. Bajwa had accompanied Imran Khan during his maiden visit to the United States. He was there during his UNGA speech where Imran spoke about India and Kashmir but failed to garner any support against India. General Bajwa is also a member of all-powerful Pakistan's development council. Recently, Bajwa met business leaders in Pakistan to address economic issues facing Pakistan's economy — something, usually, a civilian government would do. General Bajwa's presence alongside Imran Khan, during his meetings with foreign dignitaries at international forums, is a clear indication of the fact that the Pak army wants a decisive say in the country's foreign policy. Pakistan is going through an unusual period in which the democratically elected government and the army appear to be working in sync. But General Bajwa's meeting with Pakistan's business leaders and his presence in the all-important meeting in China indicates that the Pakistani army has lost all faith in Khan after his failure at the UNGA.

Soft coup in Pakistan?: General Bajwa to be part of Xi-Imran meet

Imran Khan to head for a 3-day visit to China. This visit would come ahead of India-China talks as Xi Jinping to visit India for talks with PM Modi. Pakistan Army General Bajwa will be accompanying him during this visit.

Bajwa will accompany Imran for China visit, Pak Army losing faith in Imran Khan?

Amidst The Rising Police Brutality, Hong Kong's Protesters Are Fighting China 'Tooth & Nail' Hong Kong protests are turning into the biggest political crisis in Xi Jinping's career. The government's declaration of emergency laws have only galvanised the pro-democracy protesters.

Gravitas: Hong Kong Protests: Biggest Political Crisis In Xi Jinping's Career

Prime Minister Imran Khan will depart on a three-day visit to China today to discuss issues of regional and bilateral significance, including the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) and Kashmir.

The visit by the Pakistan premier comes ahead of Chinese President Xi Jinping's tour of Nepal and India, Radio Pakistan reported.

During his visit, the Prime Minister will hold separate meetings with Chinese President Xi Jinping and Premier Li Keqiang.

Khan will discuss expansion of projects under the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor framework besides cooperation in agriculture, industrial and socio-economic sectors.

He is also likely to address the China Pakistan Business Forum in Beijing to further promote economic and trade exchanges between the two countries.

The Prime Minister will also meet with Chinese entrepreneurs and heads of different companies during the visit.

The two sides will discuss the immediate implementation of Phase-II of China-Pakistan Free Trade Agreement, signed between the two strategic cooperative partners to further enhance bilateral business and trade.

They will also examine the abolition of quota for all Pakistani agro products like rice, wheat, corn, soybean, sugar and tobacco as Pakistan will prove to be a food basket for China.

It will be the third visit of Khan to China within a year.

He will be accompanied by Foreign Minister Shah Mehmood Qureshi, Railways Minister Sheikh Rasheed, Minister for Planning Khusro Bakhtiar and Finance Adviser Hafeez Sheikh.

Prime Minister Imran Khan will depart on a three-day visit to China today to discuss issues of regional and bilateral significance, including the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) and Kashmir.

Prime Minister Imran Khan will depart on a three-day visit to China today to discuss issues of regional and bilateral significance, including the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) and Kashmir. The visit by the Pakistan premier comes ahead of Chinese President Xi Jinping's tour of Nepal and India, Radio Pakistan reported. During his visit, the Prime Minister will hold separate meetings with Chinese President Xi Jinping and Premier Li Keqiang. Khan will discuss expansion of projects under the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor framework besides cooperation in agriculture, industrial and socio-economic sectors. He is also likely to address the China Pakistan Business Forum in Beijing to further promote economic and trade exchanges between the two countries. The Prime Minister will also meet with Chinese entrepreneurs and heads of different companies during the visit. The two sides will discuss the immediate implementation of Phase-II of China-Pakistan Free Trade Agreement, signed between the two strategic cooperative partners to further enhance bilateral business and trade. They will also examine the abolition of quota for all Pakistani agro products like rice, wheat, corn, soybean, sugar and tobacco as Pakistan will prove to be a food basket for China. It will be the third visit of Khan to China within a year. He will be accompanied by Foreign Minister Shah Mehmood Qureshi, Railways Minister Sheikh Rasheed, Minister for Planning Khusro Bakhtiar and Finance Adviser Hafeez Sheikh.

Pakistan: PM Imran Khan to embark on a 3-day visit to China today

Chinese President Xi Jinping has promised to promote a "long-term, sound and stable" relationship with North Korea, state news agency Xinhua said Sunday, as the two countries mark 70 years of diplomatic relations.

North Korean leader Kim Jong-un also sent a message to Xi saying their countries' "invincible friendship will be immortal on the road of accomplishing the cause of socialism," said Pyongyang's state news agency KCNA on Sunday.

North Korea was among the first countries to recognise the People's Republic of China after it was founded in 1949.

Xi said the relationship between the Asian neighbours had played an "important and positive role in maintaining regional peace and stability," said Xinhua.

Since March 2018, Xi and Kim have met five times.

Xi was the first Chinese leader to visit the reclusive North in 14 years when he made a highly symbolic trip to the nuclear-armed state in June.

Kim said the two countries would "steadily defend the cause of socialism and preserve peace and stability of the Korean peninsula and the world," according to KCNA.

The warm words from Beijing follow its huge military parade Tuesday to mark the 70th anniversary of the founding a Communist China, and come a day after the latest round of nuclear talks between the US and North Korea ended in Sweden.

Pyongyang -- under three sets of UN sanctions in a bid to force it to give up its nuclear and ballistic weapons programmes -- said the talks broke down because the US "disappointed us greatly".

Washington, however, said there had been "good discussions".

The talks followed months of stalemate after a February meeting between Kim and US President Donald Trump, and came after Pyongyang's defiant test of a sea-launched ballistic missile on Wednesday.

Since the US-North Korea talks began, Russia and China have been calling for the United Nations to start lifting sanctions so as to create momentum towards the North's denuclearisation.

Chinese President Xi Jinping has promised to promote a "long-term, sound and stable" relationship with North Korea, state news agency Xinhua said Sunday, as the two countries mark 70 years of diplomatic relations.

Chinese President Xi Jinping has promised to promote a "long-term, sound and stable" relationship with North Korea, state news agency Xinhua said Sunday, as the two countries mark 70 years of diplomatic relations. North Korean leader Kim Jong-un also sent a message to Xi saying their countries' "invincible friendship will be immortal on the road of accomplishing the cause of socialism," said Pyongyang's state news agency KCNA on Sunday. North Korea was among the first countries to recognise the People's Republic of China after it was founded in 1949. Xi said the relationship between the Asian neighbours had played an "important and positive role in maintaining regional peace and stability," said Xinhua. Since March 2018, Xi and Kim have met five times. Xi was the first Chinese leader to visit the reclusive North in 14 years when he made a highly symbolic trip to the nuclear-armed state in June. Kim said the two countries would "steadily defend the cause of socialism and preserve peace and stability of the Korean peninsula and the world," according to KCNA. The warm words from Beijing follow its huge military parade Tuesday to mark the 70th anniversary of the founding a Communist China, and come a day after the latest round of nuclear talks between the US and North Korea ended in Sweden. Pyongyang -- under three sets of UN sanctions in a bid to force it to give up its nuclear and ballistic weapons programmes -- said the talks broke down because the US "disappointed us greatly". Washington, however, said there had been "good discussions". The talks followed months of stalemate after a February meeting between Kim and US President Donald Trump, and came after Pyongyang's defiant test of a sea-launched ballistic missile on Wednesday. Since the US-North Korea talks began, Russia and China have been calling for the United Nations to start lifting sanctions so as to create momentum towards the North's denuclearisation.

Xi Jinping and Kim Jong-un hail 'immortal' China-North Korea relationship

Lawmakers pushing a fast-moving impeachment probe against President Donald Trump were set to hear Friday from a key intelligence official as new evidence showed how the president pressured Ukraine to help him win re-election.

Trump is accused of pushing Ukraine's President Volodymyr Zelensky to investigate the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-state-department-approves-missile-sale-raised-in-ukraine-call-253609">US </a>leader's 2020 election rival Joe Biden in return for $400 million in military aid, in a mushrooming scandal that has engulfed the White House, State Department and Justice Department.

With Congress due to hear from intelligence community inspector general Michael Atkinson, the White House was reeling from the release of text messages illustrating US officials' concerns about the administration's attempt to push Kiev into investigating Biden.

Watch Video: US President Donald Trump says he wants China to investigate Bidens

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When a whistleblower filed a complaint in August alleging that Trump had pressured <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/texts-show-us-diplomat-pushing-ukraine-on-probe-for-donald-trump-meeting-253653">Ukraine</a>'s president to dig up dirt on Biden, it was Atkinson that deemed it a matter of "urgent concern" and passed it on to the Justice Department.

Among the trove of texts released by the House intelligence committee late Thursday, was a message from US special envoy to Ukraine Kurt Volker to a Zelensky aide, saying that that the Ukrainian president should open the investigation in return for a visit to the White House.

"We have ample evidence now that there was a requirement that President Zelensky investigate the 2016 election, and the Bidens, if he wanted to get a meeting," Democrat Eric Swalwell said after Volker testified for eight hours.

'Nothing to do with politics'&nbsp;

It is illegal for a US national to seek foreign help in a domestic election, regardless of whether an inducement is offered.

Trump's frustration and anger over the scandal have boiled over in a series of increasingly erratic and outlandish public appearances and Twitter rants in which he flitted between defiance and conspiratorial paranoia.

"As President, I have an obligation to end CORRUPTION, even if that means requesting the help of a foreign country or countries," Trump tweeted Friday.

"It is done all the time. This has NOTHING to do with politics or a political campaign against the Bidens. This does have to do with their corruption!"

Trump stunned Washington Thursday by openly calling on China as well as Ukraine to investigate Biden doing brazenly in public what he is trouble for doing in a phone call with Ukraine's leader.

Speaking in Florida Thursday, Trump blasted his accusers as "maniacs" pursuing "impeachment crap" as he sought to turn the tables on a probe that threatens to make him only the third US president ever impeached in the House of Representatives, and face a trial in the Senate.

'Impunity'&nbsp;

Trump doubled down by calling for Zelensky and Chinese leader Xi Jinping to go after Biden, who leads the race for the Democratic presidential nomination next year.

"I would say that President Zelensky, if it were me, I would recommend that they start an investigation into the Bidens," Trump told reporters outside the White House.

"Likewise, China should start an investigation into the Bidens, because what happened in China is just about as bad as what happened with Ukraine."

Asked if he would request Xi do the same, Trump replied: "It's certainly something we can start thinking about."

Adam Schiff, the Democrat, leading the impeachment probe in the House of Representatives, said Trump was acting "with impunity" in the face of the law.

"Once again we have a president of the United States suggesting, urging a foreign country to interfere in our presidential elections," Schiff said.

Trump alleges falsely that Biden, as vice president in 2014, tried to block a Ukraine corruption probe into his son Hunter's business partner, a Ukraine gas tycoon, using US aid as leverage.

He also alleged without evidence that Hunter used his stature to raise $1.5 billion in 2013 from China for a new investment vehicle in Beijing.

Republicans who sat in on the interview with Volker said he did not support charges that Trump withheld hundreds of millions of dollars in military aid from Ukraine to force Zelensky to open an investigation, as was alleged in a whistleblower complaint made public last week.

"It is crystal clear that any allegation that President Trump was trying to get President Zelensky to manufacture dirt on the Bidens is just not true," said Representative Lee Zeldin, before Volker's testimony ended.

Lawmakers pushing a fast-moving impeachment probe against President Donald Trump were set to hear Friday from a key intelligence official as new evidence showed how the president pressured Ukraine to help him win re-election.

Lawmakers pushing a fast-moving impeachment probe against President Donald Trump were set to hear Friday from a key intelligence official as new evidence showed how the president pressured Ukraine to help him win re-election. Trump is accused of pushing Ukraine's President Volodymyr Zelensky to investigate the US leader's 2020 election rival Joe Biden in return for $400 million in military aid, in a mushrooming scandal that has engulfed the White House, State Department and Justice Department. With Congress due to hear from intelligence community inspector general Michael Atkinson, the White House was reeling from the release of text messages illustrating US officials' concerns about the administration's attempt to push Kiev into investigating Biden. Watch Video: US President Donald Trump says he wants China to investigate Bidens × When a whistleblower filed a complaint in August alleging that Trump had pressured Ukraine's president to dig up dirt on Biden, it was Atkinson that deemed it a matter of "urgent concern" and passed it on to the Justice Department. Among the trove of texts released by the House intelligence committee late Thursday, was a message from US special envoy to Ukraine Kurt Volker to a Zelensky aide, saying that that the Ukrainian president should open the investigation in return for a visit to the White House. "We have ample evidence now that there was a requirement that President Zelensky investigate the 2016 election, and the Bidens, if he wanted to get a meeting," Democrat Eric Swalwell said after Volker testified for eight hours. 'Nothing to do with politics' It is illegal for a US national to seek foreign help in a domestic election, regardless of whether an inducement is offered. Trump's frustration and anger over the scandal have boiled over in a series of increasingly erratic and outlandish public appearances and Twitter rants in which he flitted between defiance and conspiratorial paranoia. "As President, I have an obligation to end CORRUPTION, even if that means requesting the help of a foreign country or countries," Trump tweeted Friday. "It is done all the time. This has NOTHING to do with politics or a political campaign against the Bidens. This does have to do with their corruption!" Trump stunned Washington Thursday by openly calling on China as well as Ukraine to investigate Biden doing brazenly in public what he is trouble for doing in a phone call with Ukraine's leader. Speaking in Florida Thursday, Trump blasted his accusers as "maniacs" pursuing "impeachment crap" as he sought to turn the tables on a probe that threatens to make him only the third US president ever impeached in the House of Representatives, and face a trial in the Senate. 'Impunity' Trump doubled down by calling for Zelensky and Chinese leader Xi Jinping to go after Biden, who leads the race for the Democratic presidential nomination next year. "I would say that President Zelensky, if it were me, I would recommend that they start an investigation into the Bidens," Trump told reporters outside the White House. "Likewise, China should start an investigation into the Bidens, because what happened in China is just about as bad as what happened with Ukraine." Asked if he would request Xi do the same, Trump replied: "It's certainly something we can start thinking about." Adam Schiff, the Democrat, leading the impeachment probe in the House of Representatives, said Trump was acting "with impunity" in the face of the law. "Once again we have a president of the United States suggesting, urging a foreign country to interfere in our presidential elections," Schiff said. Trump alleges falsely that Biden, as vice president in 2014, tried to block a Ukraine corruption probe into his son Hunter's business partner, a Ukraine gas tycoon, using US aid as leverage. He also alleged without evidence that Hunter used his stature to raise $1.5 billion in 2013 from China for a new investment vehicle in Beijing. Republicans who sat in on the interview with Volker said he did not support charges that Trump withheld hundreds of millions of dollars in military aid from Ukraine to force Zelensky to open an investigation, as was alleged in a whistleblower complaint made public last week. "It is crystal clear that any allegation that President Trump was trying to get President Zelensky to manufacture dirt on the Bidens is just not true," said Representative Lee Zeldin, before Volker's testimony ended.

Intel official to testify as new texts pile pressure on Trump

Hong Kong's embattled leader <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/new-protests-as-hong-kong-government-mulls-face-mask-ban-253638">Carrie Lam</a> on Friday invoked colonial-era emergency powers for the first time in more than 50 years in a dramatic move intended to quell escalating violence in the Chinese-ruled city.

Lam, speaking at a news conference, said a ban on face masks would take effect on Saturday under the emergency laws that allow authorities to "make any regulations whatsoever" in whatever they deem to be in the public interest.

<a href="https://wionews.com/world/hong-kong-government-to-meet-today-to-discuss-face-mask-ban-at-protests-253612">Many protesters</a> wear masks to hide their identity due to fears employers could face pressure to take action against them.

It was not clear how the government would implement the mask ban in a city where many of its 7.4 million residents wear them every day to protect against infection following the outbreak of the deadly Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome (SARS) in 2003.

Four months of anti-government protests have plunged the former British colony into its biggest political crisis since its handover to Beijing in 1997 and have created a serious challenge to Chinese leader Xi Jinping.

Violence escalated on Tuesday, the 70th anniversary of the founding of the People's Republic of China, when police fired about 1,800 volleys of tear gas, 900 rubber bullets and six live bullets - one of which hit an 18-year-old.

The student, Tony Tsang, was shot at close range as he fought an officer with what appeared to be a white pole. He has been charged with rioting, which carries a maximum 10-year sentence, and assaulting an officer. Tsang is in stable condition in hospital.

The shooting enraged protesters who rampaged across the city, throwing petrol bombs, blocking roads and starting fires as police responded with tear gas.

'More serious'

Even before the new rules were confirmed, protests against them began across the Asian financial hub, with hundreds of office workers wearing masks gathering to march.

"Police brutality is becoming more serious and the set up of an anti-mask law is to threaten us from protesting," said one protester, who asked to be identified as just Chan, a 27-year-old financial industry worker.

Pro-Beijing groups had been pushing for legislation to ban face masks at demonstrations.

The protesters are angry about what they see as creeping interference by Beijing in their city's affairs despite a promise of autonomy in the "one country, two systems" formula under which Hong Kong returned to China in 1997.

China dismisses accusations it is meddling and has accused foreign governments, including the United States and Britain, of stirring up anti-China sentiment.

What began as opposition to a proposed extradition law, that could have seen people sent for trial in mainland courts, has grown into a call for five demands, including universal suffrage and an inquiry into alleged police brutality.

The protests have been inflamed by the police shooting of a teenaged secondary school student on Tuesday during a clash, and more rallies are expected later in the evening and over the weekend.

Authorities have already loosened guidelines on the use of force by police, according to documents seen by Reuters.

(Reporting by Twinnie Siu, James Pomfret and Felix Tam; Writing by Farah Master; Editing by Anne Marie Roantree, Robert&nbsp;

Hong Kong's embattled leader Carrie Lam on Friday invoked colonial-era emergency powers for the first time in more than 50 years in a dramatic move intended to quell escalating violence in the Chinese-ruled city.

Hong Kong's embattled leader Carrie Lam on Friday invoked colonial-era emergency powers for the first time in more than 50 years in a dramatic move intended to quell escalating violence in the Chinese-ruled city. Lam, speaking at a news conference, said a ban on face masks would take effect on Saturday under the emergency laws that allow authorities to "make any regulations whatsoever" in whatever they deem to be in the public interest. Many protesters wear masks to hide their identity due to fears employers could face pressure to take action against them. It was not clear how the government would implement the mask ban in a city where many of its 7.4 million residents wear them every day to protect against infection following the outbreak of the deadly Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome (SARS) in 2003. Four months of anti-government protests have plunged the former British colony into its biggest political crisis since its handover to Beijing in 1997 and have created a serious challenge to Chinese leader Xi Jinping. Violence escalated on Tuesday, the 70th anniversary of the founding of the People's Republic of China, when police fired about 1,800 volleys of tear gas, 900 rubber bullets and six live bullets - one of which hit an 18-year-old. The student, Tony Tsang, was shot at close range as he fought an officer with what appeared to be a white pole. He has been charged with rioting, which carries a maximum 10-year sentence, and assaulting an officer. Tsang is in stable condition in hospital. The shooting enraged protesters who rampaged across the city, throwing petrol bombs, blocking roads and starting fires as police responded with tear gas. 'More serious' Even before the new rules were confirmed, protests against them began across the Asian financial hub, with hundreds of office workers wearing masks gathering to march. "Police brutality is becoming more serious and the set up of an anti-mask law is to threaten us from protesting," said one protester, who asked to be identified as just Chan, a 27-year-old financial industry worker. Pro-Beijing groups had been pushing for legislation to ban face masks at demonstrations. The protesters are angry about what they see as creeping interference by Beijing in their city's affairs despite a promise of autonomy in the "one country, two systems" formula under which Hong Kong returned to China in 1997. China dismisses accusations it is meddling and has accused foreign governments, including the United States and Britain, of stirring up anti-China sentiment. What began as opposition to a proposed extradition law, that could have seen people sent for trial in mainland courts, has grown into a call for five demands, including universal suffrage and an inquiry into alleged police brutality. The protests have been inflamed by the police shooting of a teenaged secondary school student on Tuesday during a clash, and more rallies are expected later in the evening and over the weekend. Authorities have already loosened guidelines on the use of force by police, according to documents seen by Reuters. (Reporting by Twinnie Siu, James Pomfret and Felix Tam; Writing by Farah Master; Editing by Anne Marie Roantree, Robert

Hong Kong leader Carrie Lam invokes emergency powers to quell escalating violence

The Madras High Court on Thursday permitted the Tamil Nadu State Government to erect banners from the Chennai airport till Mahabalipuram town to welcome Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Chinese President Xi Jinping who are to have an <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/chinese-president-xi-jinping-to-visit-chennai-for-second-informal-summit-with-pm-modi-253221">informal summit in the Mahabalipuram town</a> over the next weekend.&nbsp;

The Division Bench of Justice Sathyanarayanan and Justice Seshasayee stated that permission was not required as the ban on flex banners applied only to political parties, while also making it clear that the banners must be erected in a manner that does not inconvenience to the public. The Court also said that no political parties would be allowed to erect banners.

The State Government in its affidavit submitted to the Madras High Court, on Tuesday, said that all over the state political parties were not permitted to erect banners, but since PM Modi and Xi are visiting Mahabalipuram during October 11-12 for an informal summit, as part of bilateral relations and a goodwill gesture it is customary to erect banners to welcome the dignitaries.&nbsp;

The state government mentioned that the Ministry of External Affairs has proposed to put up welcome banners in Chennai in 14 locations, nine locations in East Coast Road, two locations in Mahabalipuram. Where the state government would erect banners in five locations in Chennai, four locations in Mahabalipuram and seven locations in Old Mahabalipuram Road and East Coast Road.&nbsp;

The above welcome banners will be put up from October 9 to 13. The welcome banners will be in places as per the specifications mentioned in the existing rules and it would be ensured that these banners would not cause any hindrance to the public. The strictest standards of safety would be maintained.

The banner culture has been a talking point in Tamil Nadu over the last month, after the tragic death of 23-year old Techie Subhasree, who was run over by a lorry after an illegal banner fell on her, while she was riding her bike. In 2017, the court had banned hoardings and flex boards featuring living persons, however, the banner culture has continued to block pedestrian walkways and arterial roads unabated.&nbsp;

In December 2018, the Madras High Court restrained all the political parties in Tamil Nadu from erecting digital banners and hoardings on arterial roads posing a risk to road users and pedestrians, until further orders.

On Wednesday, actor-turned-politician Kamal Haasan had appealed to PM Modi on Twitter, requesting him to put an end to the banner culture, as the Madras High Court is expected to respond on Thursday to permissions sought by the state government for erecting banners ahead of the Modi-Xi Jinping informal summit that is to take place over the following weekend in Mahabalipuram.

Haasan Tweeted, ''Honorable @PMOIndia While Thamizh Nadu and Thamizhians are struggling to cope up with the loss of Shubasri’s death, the Thamizh Nadu Government has approached the courts to obtain permission to erect your banners. If you act as a pioneer in taking the first step to put an end to this haphazard banner culture, it will reflect your concern towards the sentiments of Thamizhians, and that in itself will garner you the greatest publicity possible. Jai Hind!”

The Madras High Court on Thursday permitted the Tamil Nadu State Government to erect banners from the Chennai airport till Mahabalipuram town to welcome Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Chinese President Xi Jinping who are to have an informal summit in the Mahabalipuram town over the next weekend.

The Madras High Court on Thursday permitted the Tamil Nadu State Government to erect banners from the Chennai airport till Mahabalipuram town to welcome Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Chinese President Xi Jinping who are to have an informal summit in the Mahabalipuram town over the next weekend. The Division Bench of Justice Sathyanarayanan and Justice Seshasayee stated that permission was not required as the ban on flex banners applied only to political parties, while also making it clear that the banners must be erected in a manner that does not inconvenience to the public. The Court also said that no political parties would be allowed to erect banners. The State Government in its affidavit submitted to the Madras High Court, on Tuesday, said that all over the state political parties were not permitted to erect banners, but since PM Modi and Xi are visiting Mahabalipuram during October 11-12 for an informal summit, as part of bilateral relations and a goodwill gesture it is customary to erect banners to welcome the dignitaries. The state government mentioned that the Ministry of External Affairs has proposed to put up welcome banners in Chennai in 14 locations, nine locations in East Coast Road, two locations in Mahabalipuram. Where the state government would erect banners in five locations in Chennai, four locations in Mahabalipuram and seven locations in Old Mahabalipuram Road and East Coast Road. The above welcome banners will be put up from October 9 to 13. The welcome banners will be in places as per the specifications mentioned in the existing rules and it would be ensured that these banners would not cause any hindrance to the public. The strictest standards of safety would be maintained. The banner culture has been a talking point in Tamil Nadu over the last month, after the tragic death of 23-year old Techie Subhasree, who was run over by a lorry after an illegal banner fell on her, while she was riding her bike. In 2017, the court had banned hoardings and flex boards featuring living persons, however, the banner culture has continued to block pedestrian walkways and arterial roads unabated. In December 2018, the Madras High Court restrained all the political parties in Tamil Nadu from erecting digital banners and hoardings on arterial roads posing a risk to road users and pedestrians, until further orders. On Wednesday, actor-turned-politician Kamal Haasan had appealed to PM Modi on Twitter, requesting him to put an end to the banner culture, as the Madras High Court is expected to respond on Thursday to permissions sought by the state government for erecting banners ahead of the Modi-Xi Jinping informal summit that is to take place over the following weekend in Mahabalipuram. Haasan Tweeted, ''Honorable @PMOIndia While Thamizh Nadu and Thamizhians are struggling to cope up with the loss of Shubasri’s death, the Thamizh Nadu Government has approached the courts to obtain permission to erect your banners. If you act as a pioneer in taking the first step to put an end to this haphazard banner culture, it will reflect your concern towards the sentiments of Thamizhians, and that in itself will garner you the greatest publicity possible. Jai Hind!”

Madras High Court permits welcome banners for Modi-Xi Summit

Chinese President Xi Jinping is likely to visit the historic city of Mahabalipuram in Chennai for his second informal summit with Prime Minister Narendra Modi next week.

India is yet to formally announce the dates of the meeting.

Meanwhile, according to reports, China will host Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan on October 8, which comes ahead of the summit between Modi and Jinping.

This will be Khan's third visit to China after assuming office.

From early this year, India and China were in touch for the second informal summit between Modi and Xi.

In August, External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar had also visited China to prepare the ground for the second informal summit between the two leaders.

Modi and Xi had met last year in Wuhan, China, for an informal summit in order to deepen bilateral cooperation.

That meeting came following the 73-day standoff in Bhutan's Doklam plateau in 2017, which strained bilateral ties between the two countries.

At Wuhan, Modi had expressed hope that such informal summits would become a tradition between the two countries. 
&nbsp;

Chinese President Xi Jinping is likely to visit the historic city of Mahabalipuram in Chennai for his second informal summit with Prime Minister Narendra Modi next week.

Chinese President Xi Jinping is likely to visit the historic city of Mahabalipuram in Chennai for his second informal summit with Prime Minister Narendra Modi next week. India is yet to formally announce the dates of the meeting. Meanwhile, according to reports, China will host Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan on October 8, which comes ahead of the summit between Modi and Jinping. This will be Khan's third visit to China after assuming office. From early this year, India and China were in touch for the second informal summit between Modi and Xi. In August, External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar had also visited China to prepare the ground for the second informal summit between the two leaders. Modi and Xi had met last year in Wuhan, China, for an informal summit in order to deepen bilateral cooperation. That meeting came following the 73-day standoff in Bhutan's Doklam plateau in 2017, which strained bilateral ties between the two countries. At Wuhan, Modi had expressed hope that such informal summits would become a tradition between the two countries.

Chinese President Xi Jinping to visit Chennai for second informal summit with PM Modi

Chinese President Xi Jinping to visit Chennai for informal summit with PM Modi between Oct 11-13

Xi Jinping to visit Chennai for informal summit with PM Modi

China staged a military parade and mass pageantry in Beijing on Tuesday to celebrate the 70th anniversary of the founding of the People's Republic of China (PRC)

China marks 70th National Day with military parade

Chinese President Xi Jinping is likely to visit the historic city of Mahabalipuram in Chennai for his second informal summit with Prime Minister Narendra Modi next week. India is yet to formally announce the dates of the meeting. Watch this video to know more.

Chinese President to visit Chennai for second informal summit with PM Modi

A Hong Kong protester was shot with a live round October 1 by police as clashes broke out across the city, posing a direct challenge to Chinese President Xi Jinping on the 70th anniversary of the founding of the People's Republic.

Hong Kong Protest: Video shows police shooting protester

China's armed forces are expected to roll out an array of new weapons at a military parade in Beijing next week as President Xi Jinping shows off his ambitious military modernization programme.

China's advanced missiles will be a main attraction at the October 1 parade to mark seven decades of Communist China. Many of them are designed to attack the aircraft carriers and bases that undergird US military strength in the region.

Among them are the so-called "carrier killer" Dongfeng-21D (DF-21D), unveiled at a parade in 2015, which China says can hit warships at a range of up to 1,500 kilometres, and the DF-26 intermediate-range missile, dubbed "Guam killer" in reference to the US Pacific island base. &nbsp;

Attention in state media has focused on the DF-41 intercontinental ballistic missile, which can carry several nuclear warheads and reach the United States, forming the backbone of China's nuclear deterrent.

China has also made rapid strides in developing hypersonic missiles, known as the DF-17, which theoretically can maneuver sharply at many times the speed of sound, further bolstering the reach of the People's Liberation Army (PLA).

Sam Roggeveen, director of the Sydney-based Lowy Institute's International Security Program, said there was no real workable defence against hypersonic missiles, aside from attacking the launcher, which would mean striking the Chinese mainland. That carries the risk of a nuclear response.

"The missiles, particularly the medium-range and intermediate-range missiles, are critical to the anti-access and area-denial strategy, which is at the heart of the PLA's strategy to counter American air and maritime power in Asia," Roggeveen said.

'Stealth Drones'

Analysts are particularly interested in the potential unveiling of two models of stealthy drones during the parade.

China has a practice of only displaying systems in parades it says are operational, suggesting that if the drones are shown they most likely have already entered some form of service.

Analysis of leaked photos and prototype models leads experts to believe one of them, the Sharp Sword, which resembles the United States' X-47 series carrier-launched stealth drone, has weapons bays. State media has said the drone had its first test flight in 2013.

Military watchers spotted the second Chinese drone, most likely a supersonic or hypersonic reconnaissance aircraft, possibly designated the DR-8, undercover during parade rehearsals. The shape is said to resemble the US D-21 reconnaissance drone of the 1960s, which could travel at more than three times the speed of sound. &nbsp;

But experts add it will be hard to know how effective the uncrewed aircraft will be or how well the PLA can fit them into its network of other platforms.

"It is difficult to be too serious about some of the equipment that the Chinese might be showing off. Some of them could be experimental or prototypes," said Richard Bitzinger, a visiting senior fellow with the Military Transformations Program at the S. Rajaratnam School of International Studies in Singapore.

'Old Fashion Thinking'

China has said about 15,000 personnel and more than 160 aircraft will be in the procession, making it larger than the last mass parade in the capital in 2015 celebrating the 70th anniversary of the end of World War Two.

Officials say Tuesday's parade is not meant as a "muscle-flexing" exercise.

But China is facing a tricky strategic situation, boxed in by US allies and military bases near the Chinese coast, including US-armed Taiwan, and repeated challenges to its claims of sovereignty in the disputed South China Sea.

Chinese Defence Ministry spokesman Ren Guoqiang on Thursday said the world was not a safe place and that the PLA "must be fully prepared and bide its time for battle."

Many western military officials and experts say China's spending on such parades, with their visually stunning choreographed marching, has almost no value for war.

The saber-rattling may also contradict Beijing's efforts to project a benign image of China's growing military, experts say.

"It shows some old fashioned thinking within China's armed forces," one Western diplomat in Beijing said on condition of anonymity.

China's armed forces are expected to roll out an array of new weapons at a military parade in Beijing next week as President Xi Jinping shows off his ambitious military modernization programme.

China's armed forces are expected to roll out an array of new weapons at a military parade in Beijing next week as President Xi Jinping shows off his ambitious military modernization programme. China's advanced missiles will be a main attraction at the October 1 parade to mark seven decades of Communist China. Many of them are designed to attack the aircraft carriers and bases that undergird US military strength in the region. Among them are the so-called "carrier killer" Dongfeng-21D (DF-21D), unveiled at a parade in 2015, which China says can hit warships at a range of up to 1,500 kilometres, and the DF-26 intermediate-range missile, dubbed "Guam killer" in reference to the US Pacific island base. Attention in state media has focused on the DF-41 intercontinental ballistic missile, which can carry several nuclear warheads and reach the United States, forming the backbone of China's nuclear deterrent. China has also made rapid strides in developing hypersonic missiles, known as the DF-17, which theoretically can maneuver sharply at many times the speed of sound, further bolstering the reach of the People's Liberation Army (PLA). Sam Roggeveen, director of the Sydney-based Lowy Institute's International Security Program, said there was no real workable defence against hypersonic missiles, aside from attacking the launcher, which would mean striking the Chinese mainland. That carries the risk of a nuclear response. "The missiles, particularly the medium-range and intermediate-range missiles, are critical to the anti-access and area-denial strategy, which is at the heart of the PLA's strategy to counter American air and maritime power in Asia," Roggeveen said. 'Stealth Drones' Analysts are particularly interested in the potential unveiling of two models of stealthy drones during the parade. China has a practice of only displaying systems in parades it says are operational, suggesting that if the drones are shown they most likely have already entered some form of service. Analysis of leaked photos and prototype models leads experts to believe one of them, the Sharp Sword, which resembles the United States' X-47 series carrier-launched stealth drone, has weapons bays. State media has said the drone had its first test flight in 2013. Military watchers spotted the second Chinese drone, most likely a supersonic or hypersonic reconnaissance aircraft, possibly designated the DR-8, undercover during parade rehearsals. The shape is said to resemble the US D-21 reconnaissance drone of the 1960s, which could travel at more than three times the speed of sound. But experts add it will be hard to know how effective the uncrewed aircraft will be or how well the PLA can fit them into its network of other platforms. "It is difficult to be too serious about some of the equipment that the Chinese might be showing off. Some of them could be experimental or prototypes," said Richard Bitzinger, a visiting senior fellow with the Military Transformations Program at the S. Rajaratnam School of International Studies in Singapore. 'Old Fashion Thinking' China has said about 15,000 personnel and more than 160 aircraft will be in the procession, making it larger than the last mass parade in the capital in 2015 celebrating the 70th anniversary of the end of World War Two. Officials say Tuesday's parade is not meant as a "muscle-flexing" exercise. But China is facing a tricky strategic situation, boxed in by US allies and military bases near the Chinese coast, including US-armed Taiwan, and repeated challenges to its claims of sovereignty in the disputed South China Sea. Chinese Defence Ministry spokesman Ren Guoqiang on Thursday said the world was not a safe place and that the PLA "must be fully prepared and bide its time for battle." Many western military officials and experts say China's spending on such parades, with their visually stunning choreographed marching, has almost no value for war. The saber-rattling may also contradict Beijing's efforts to project a benign image of China's growing military, experts say. "It shows some old fashioned thinking within China's armed forces," one Western diplomat in Beijing said on condition of anonymity.

Missiles, drones may steal the show at Beijing military parade

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