India turning Kashmir into world’s largest prison: Maleeha Lodhi

At the United Nations, Pakistan says world body's decolonization agenda would remain incomplete without a settlement of Kashmir dispute based on Security Council resolutions.

Speaking to the General Assembly's Special Political and Decolonization (Fourth) Committee, Outgoing Pakistan's Permanent Representative to the United Nations, Maleeha Lodhi said India illegally annexed Jammu and Kashmir on August 5, turning it into the world’s largest prison.

Lodhi said Pakistan will remain the voice of Kashmiris in all international forums especially the UN until justice is done and they are able to exercise their right to self-determination.

It was Maleeha Lodhi's third statement on Kashmir at the UN this week as she pressed on with her campaign to expose Indian atrocities in occupied Kashmir.

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Armed Forces fully ready to respond any misadventure: Air Chief

Chief of Air Staff Air Chief Marshal Mujahid Anwar Khan says our battle hardened Armed Forces are capable and ever ready to meet internal and external challenges.

According to ISPR, addressing Passing out Parade of Cadets at PMA Kakul, he said Pakistan Armed Forces take pride in their sacrifices against war on terror and bringing peace and normalcy in the country.

He said valiant Armed Forces are fully ready to respond befittingly in case of any misadventure.  

Air Chief advised cadets that they have to come up to expectations of the nation by attaining highest standards of professional excellence and personal conduct.

He congratulated the passing out cadets and their parents for successful completion of training and commission into service.

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FATF expected to meet in Paris today

The Financial Action Task Force is expected to decide on Pakistan’s fate during its Paris meeting, which will be held from October 13 to October 18.

Pakistan has already prepared its compliance report, which will be presented by Economic Affairs Minister Hammad Azhar.

In June, the FATF had given Pakistan four months (till October) to improve its “counter-terrorist financing” operations in accordance with the agreed plan. It had expressed concern that “not only did Pakistan fail to complete its action plan items by January deadline; it also failed to complete its action plan items due May 2019”.

Pakistan was told to block financial loopholes, terror financing, and money laundering by implementing the 27-point action plan.

Based out of Paris, the FATF is an inter-governmental body that combats money laundering, terrorist financing and threats to the international financial system. It put Pakistan on its grey list in June 2017 because of deficiencies in the country’s Anti-Money Laundering and Countering of Terrorist Financing regulations.

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PM Imran to leave for Iran Today

As part of his initiative to promote peace and security in the region, Prime Minister Imran Khan will be undertaking a visit to Iran on Sunday (today).

According to the Foreign Office Spokesperson, during the visit, the Prime Minister will have meetings with the Iranian leadership, including Supreme Leader Ayatollah Sayyed Ali Khamenei and President Dr. Hassan Rouhani.

Besides issues relating to peace and security in the Gulf, bilateral matters and important regional developments will be discussed.

This will be the Prime Minister’s second visit to Iran this year.

The Prime Minister also had a bilateral meeting with the President of Iran on the sidelines of the 74th UNGA Session in New York in September 2019.

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PML-N to convey Nawaz's message to Fazl before finalising strategy for anti-govt march

The PML-N on Saturday announced that the party will share the message written in a letter by former prime minister Nawaz Sharif with Jamiat Ulema-i-Islam (JUI-F) chief Maulana Fazlur Rehman before finalising the programme for the latter's anti-government protest march.

The announcement was made by senior PML-N leader Ahsan Iqbal, who was briefing reporters after a huddle of the party's senior leadership in Lahore chaired by its president Shahbaz Sharif.

Iqbal revealed that Shahbaz had during the meeting read out contents of the letter written to him by party supremo Nawaz. He said in the letter, Nawaz had detailed a "complete roadmap" for the PML-N and expressed the desire that the party take the JUI-F chief into confidence in this regard.

"For this purpose, a senior delegation of the party will immediately take Nawaz Sharif's letter to Maulana Fazlur Rehman so that we can give a final shape to the programme of this Azadi March," Iqbal said.

He said Nawaz had agreed with the objectives of the so-called Azadi March and stressed the "important" role to be played by the PML-N in the face of a "sinking economy" for which he held the government responsible.

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Iran welcomes efforts for mediation with Saudi Arabia as PM Imran prepares for Tehran visit

Iranian Foreign Minister Mohammad Javad Zarif has welcomed efforts for mediation with Saudi Arabia ahead of Prime Minister Imran Khan's visit to the country.

"We've always been open to discussing anything with Saudi Arabia. Saudi Arabia is our neighbor. We're going to be here together permanently," Zarif said in an interview with TRT World.

"We don't have any choice but to talk to each other, and we have been open to talking to Saudi Arabia either directly or through intermediaries," Zarif noted.

When asked about PM Imran’s upcoming visit to Tehran, Zarif said, "We've never rejected any intermediary... We've always been open to mediation, and we've always been open to direct talks with our Saudi neighbors."

The Foreign Office on Thursday said PM Imran was likely to visit Saudi Arabia and Iran, weeks after Islamabad said Washington had asked it to mediate with Tehran.

“The possibility of a visit of the prime minister to Saudi Arabia and Iran is on the cards,” Foreign Office Spokesman Dr Mohammad Faisal said during his weekly news briefing on Thursday.

The announcement of the possible visit comes after PM Imran last month said that US President Donald Trump had asked him to help defuse tensions in the Middle East.

The prime minister, after a meeting with the US president on the sidelines of the United Nations General Assembly in New York, had said that he was “trying and mediating” and had also spoken with Iran’s President Hassan Rouhani.

Washington had blamed Tehran for an attack on the world’s biggest crude oil processing facility in Saudi Arabia a few weeks ago.

Moreover, Iranian government spokesman Ali Rabiei said PM Imran was reportedly carrying a message from Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, Voice of America reported.

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Results of government's difficult decisions now showing: Hafeez Sheikh

Adviser to the Prime Minister on Finance Dr Abdul Hafeez Sheikh on Saturday reviewed the economic performance of the country during the first three months of the financial year 2020.

Addressing a press conference in Islamabad, Sheikh said that two big deficits — foreign trade and fiscal — had been brought under control in the country.

He said that the trade deficit was brought down by 35 per cent while fiscal deficit was reduced by 36pc in the first quarter.

"These are big steps and their positive results have come forward," Sheikh said.

Additionally, he noted that revenue had also increased by 16pc.

"One thing that we have really improved on in comparison to the previous year is non-tax revenue," the finance adviser said.

He revealed that Rs406 billion had been collected in non-tax revenue which was a 140pc increase over the previous year.

"We think that this is a big achievement. In our budget, we have a Rs1,200 billion target, but I want to share the good news with you that we will increase this by Rs400bn and are confident to take it to Rs1,600bn."

On the exchange rate front, the adviser to the prime minister said that it had been brought to a stable level over the past three months. He also stated that foreign exchange reserves had now been stabilised.

He said that net portfolio investment in the country had increased after three years by $340 million.

"Foreign investors are showing confidence in Pakistan's economy right now," Sheikh said.

The adviser said that the results of the assistance provided by the government to the export sector were starting to become visible, particularly in the production of the export sector.

He added that another target of the government, the employment of Pakistanis overseas, was also going well.

Sheikh said that confidence in the stock market had increased. He noted that in the past three months — from August till now — the stock market had risen from the 28,000 points level to 34,000.

"The results of the difficult decisions taken by the government are slowly becoming apparent," he said, adding that international financial organisations like the International Monetary Fund and the World Bank as well as foreign investors were now giving positive statements about Pakistan.

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Option to hold talks with opposition remains open: PM Imran

Prime Minister Imran Khan has said that the option to hold talks is open with the Jamiat Ulema-e-Islam-Fazl.

According to sources, the prime minister was chairing a high-level session where the topic of Azadi March also came up, along with discussion on Iran and Saudi Arabia.

The PM shed light on his recent visit to China, terming it successful. PM Imran said that Pakistan has come out of diplomatic isolation.

On the subject of Azadi March, the premier was asked if a committee was formed to talk to the JUI-F, upon which the PM said that currently there isn’t a need for one.

He further said that the option for talks is open, adding ‘if someone wants to talk then the option should remain open’.

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27th October to be observed as Black Day to condemn Indian brutalities: FM Qurashi

Foreign Minister Shah Mahmood Qureshi has said that 27th of October will be observed as Black Day in the country and foreign missions have also been asked to protest and condemn Indian brutalities in occupied Kashmir.

Talking to media in Multan, he said the United Nations and the United States should play their role and mediate to resolve longstanding Kashmir issue.

Meanwhile, addressing a public gathering in Multan, the Foreign Minister said Kashmir issue was discussed in United Nations Security Council after fifty four years due to successful diplomatic efforts of the government.

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JUI-F chief trying political stunt in shape of Azadi March

Federal Minister for Religious Affairs Noorul Haq Qadri Friday sought Maulana Fazal-ur-Rehman’s recommendations to reform country on the pattern of the State of Medina.

Qadri in his statement advised JUI-F chief to avoid creating hurdles in the way of the incumbent government. He said Maulana Sahab is free nowadays, that’s why he is trying a political stunt in shape of Azadi March.

The federal minister said according to him, Fazal-ur-Rehman will not march towards the federal capital.

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PM Imran assures Erdogan of Pakistan's full support to Turkey

Prime Minister Imran Khan on Friday assured President Recep Tayyip Erdogan of Pakistan's full support to Turkey.

The prime minister telephoned the Turkish leader and told him that his country stands in full support and solidarity with Turkey and understands its concerns relating to terrorism.

"As a country which has lost more than 70,000 lives due to terrorism and borne the burden of more than 3 million refugees for decades, Pakistan is fully cognizant of the threats and challenges being faced by Turkey having lost 40,000 of its people to terrorism," the prime minister said.

Prime Minister Imran Khan said, "We pray that Turkey’s efforts for enhanced security, regional stability and peaceful resolution of the Syrian situation are fully successful.

"He said the government and people of Pakistan looked forward to accord a warm welcome to President Erdogan on his forthcoming visit to Pakistan later this month.

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Iranian oil tanker hit off Saudi coast, may have been missiles - Iran reports

An Iranian-owned oil tanker was struck, probably by missiles, in the Red Sea off Saudi Arabia’s coast on Friday, Iranian media said, an incident that if confirmed will stoke tension in a region rattled by attacks on tankers and oil sites since May.

The Sabiti was hit in the morning about 60 miles (96 km) from the Saudi port of Jeddah, Iranian media reported. The National Iranian Tanker Company (NITC) said the ship was damaged but now heading to the Gulf, denying reports it was set ablaze.

The incident, which has yet to be independently confirmed, is the latest involving oil tankers in the Red Sea and Gulf area, and is likely to ratchet up tensions between Tehran and Riyadh, long-time regional foes that have been fighting a proxy war in Yemen, which lies at the southern end of the Red Sea.

Reports of the incident, which have so far only come from Iranian sources, offered sometimes diverging accounts. State television, citing the national oil company, said it was hit by missiles while denying a report they came from Saudi Arabia.

NITC said in statement on its website that “the blasts were probably caused by missile strikes” and it was investigating the source, adding two tanks were damaged but the crew was safe.

Iran’s Foreign Ministry said the ship was hit twice, without saying what struck it. State television broadcast images from the Sabiti’s deck saying they were taken after the attack but showing no visible damage. The ship’s hull was not in view.

The Red Sea is a major global shipping route for oil and other trade, linking the Indian Ocean with the Mediterranean via the Suez Canal. Crude prices jumped on the news and industry sources said it could drive up already high shipping costs.

There was no claim of responsibility for Friday’s reported incident, which follows attacks on tankers in the Gulf in May and June, as well as strikes on Saudi oil sites in September.

The United States, embroiled in a row with Tehran over its nuclear plans, has blamed Iran for those incidents. Tehran has denied having a role in any of the attacks since May.

Saudi Arabia had no immediate comment on Friday’s reports. The U.S. Navy’s Fifth Fleet, which operates in the region, said it was aware of the reports but had no further information.

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Army Officers dismissed from service over breach of discipline

Three majors of the Pakistan Army have been dismissed from service after being found guilty of indiscipline and misconduct charges, including abuse of authority and involvement in illegal activities, Inter-Services Public Relations announced on Friday.

The military’s media wing said: “Upon [being] found guilty of the charges levelled against them, all three [have been] dismissed from service while two [have] also [been] awarded rigorous imprisonment for two years each.”

“Charges included misuse of authority and involvement in illegal activities unbecoming of an officer,” the ISPR said.

The exact nature of the charges have not been specified, however, and it remains unclear exactly what the three officers were found guilty of.

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PM Imran regrets int’l media ignoring dire human rights crisis in Kashmir

Prime Minister Imran Khan has regretted the international media is ignoring the dire human rights crisis in Indian occupied Kashmir.

In a series of tweets today, he said Kashmir is an internationally recognized disputed territory illegally annexed by India with nine hundred thousand troops imposing a siege on eight million Kashmiris.

I am puzzled as to how international media continues to give headline coverage to Hongkong protests but ignores the dire human rights crisis in IOJK - an internationally recognised disputed territory illegally annexed by India with 900k troops imposing a siege on 8mn Kashmiris

— Imran Khan (@ImranKhanPTI) October 11, 2019

Voicing concerns over the situation in occupied Kashmir, he said, a complete blackout of communications is continuing there for over two months with thousands imprisoned including the children and the entire spectrum of political leadership.

He said one hundred thousand Kashmiris have been killed in over thirty years.

For over 2 months with a complete blackout of communications, thousands imprisoned,including entire spectrum of political leadership plus children, & a growing humanitarian crisis. In IOJK 100k Kashmiris have been killed over 30 yrs fighting for their right to self determination

— Imran Khan (@ImranKhanPTI) October 11, 2019

He said the Kashmiris are fighting for their right to self-determination committed to them by the international community through the UN Security Council resolutions.

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Rangers Sindh arrests 22 suspects form Karachi

The Pakistan Rangers Sindh arrested 22 suspects from different areas of Karachi.

According to Rangers spokesperson, the law enforcement agencies conducted raids at the Model colony, Korangi, PIB Colony, Gulshan-e-Maymar and Garden area and arrested 22 suspects.

The outlaws were involved in street crimes and dacoity cases.

Earlier on October 5, special policing powers of Rangers in Sindh have further been extended for three months.

A notification has been issued by the Sindh home department after the approval of Interior Ministry in this regard.

The paramilitary force has been playing its effective role in curbing heinous crimes in the province. Previously, the Sindh government extended Rangers’ special powers for Karachi in the month of July.

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Nawaz Sharif to appear before Court in Sugar Mills case today

Former PM Nawaz Sharif will be presented in an accountability court in Islamabad today (Friday) in the Chaudhry Sugar Mills case.

The National Accountability Bureau has issued warrants of his arrest and are expected to ask for a 15-day physical remand of the PML-N leader.

Strict security measures have been taken and the streets adjacent to the court were closed for traffic at 7am.

An accountability court in Lahore has approved NAB’s request to investigate the former PM, who is currently locked up at Lahore’s Kot Lakhpat jail. The request was submitted by NAB prosecutor Hafiz Asad Awan.

The bureau suspects that billions of rupees have been laundered under the mills’ names. The inquiry, which was started in October 2018, revealed that Nawaz, his daughter Maryam Nawaz, brother Shehbaz Sharif and some foreigners in the UK and UAE were shareholders of the company.

Nawaz is serving a seven-year imprisonment in Al-Azizia Mills corruption case. NAB has already arrested his daughter Maryam Nawaz and nephew Yousuf Abbas in the Chaudhry Sugar Mills case.

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AEDB approves draft ARE Policy 2019 for sustainable growth

The Alternative Energy Development Board in its 46th Meeting under the Chairmanship of Federal Minister for Power Omar Ayub Khan has approved the draft ARE Policy 2019 on the basis of consensus of all members.

The AEDB Board deliberated upon the draft ARE Policy 2019, that was prepared by AEDB in consultation with public and private sector stakeholders including provincial government agencies.

The consensus was developed on several inputs and suggestions given by the Provincial representatives aimed towards improving the policy framework. Chairman AEDB Omar Ayub stated that the policy aims at creating a conducive environment supported by a robust framework for the sustainable growth of ARE Sector in Pakistan

Federal Secretary Power Division, Irfan Ali on the occasion apprised the meeting that for the first time a very ambitious yet workable policy has been attempted to tap the indigenous resources of the country.

He said that the policy provides for the steering committee comprising of all provinces and co-opted members who will decide major projects of renewable energy.

Provincial participation has been increased in the new draft of renewable energy, he added.

The Federal Minister for Energy, Federal Secretary Power and all other members of the Board congratulated CEO AEDB, Dr. Rana Abdul Jabbar Khan and his team on the tireless efforts towards formulation and approval of the policy.

Federal Secretary Power Division, Irfan Ali and all the Provincial Energy Secretaries attended the meeting.

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COAS Bajwa, Chinese Liberation Army Commander discuss matters of mutual interest

Chief of Army Staff (COAS) General Qamar Javed Bajwa met Commander of People’s Liberation Army (PLA) China, ISPR reported.

According to Inter-Services Public Relations, the commander southern theater command of PLA and COAS Bajwa discuss mutual interest matters.

Earlier on October 8, Chief of Army Staff (COAS) General Qamar Javed Bajwa visited People’s Liberation Army (PLA) headquarters and met the top brass of the Chinese military during his ongoing visit, Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR) said.

The ISPR spokesperson said that the Army Chief visited PLA headquarters today and held separate meetings with the PLA commander and the vice-chairman of the Central Military Commission.

During the meeting, COAS Bajwa discussed the current situation of the Indian occupied Jammu and Kashmir (IOJK) and matters relating to regional security. The Army Chief apprised the Chinese military leadership regarding the ongoing atrocities in IOJK.

General Bajwa urged Indian authorities to respect the resolutions of the United Nations (UN) for Kashmir dispute besides ensuring the security of human rights of Kashmiris.

The Chinese military leadership expressed complete support to Pakistan’s stance on principle for Kashmir. They said that the gesture of Islamabad in the tensed situation is in the interest of peace.

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Kashmir Day being observed to express solidarity with Kashmiris

Kashmir Day is being observed today to highlight the Indian atrocities in occupied Kashmir.

A human chain will be formed under the leadership of Prime Minister Imran Khan in Islamabad today to express solidarity with Kashmiris.

According to Information Ministry, the human chain will be formed from Convention Centre to D-Chowk at 3.30 pm today.

Prime Minister will address the participants at D-Chowk.

Meanwhile, a meeting chaired by Minister for Kashmir Affairs Ali Amin Gandapur in Islamabad, reviewed the arrangements made to observe the day.

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Whitewash an eye-opener for us as well as critics: Misbah-ul-Haq

Pakistan head coach Misbah-ul-Haq on Wednesday said that the 3-0 whitewash to Sri Lanka in the T20I series was an eye-opener for the team as well as their critics.

“We did not play good cricket throughout the series. The result is an eye-opener for everyone. This also tells us what we need to work on for future series,” said captain Sarfaraz Ahmed, who sat alongside Misbah in a press conference at the Gaddafi Stadium Lahore and invited questions from media personnel.

Sarfaraz, who came in to bat at number four and scored 17 off 16 balls before throwing away his wicket, appeared to pin the responsibility of the failed run chase on his partner Haris Sohail.

“The pitch was such that we were not able to hit right away. The plan was for me and Haris to bat together but then he got out and the next batters needed time to settle,” he said.

Sarfaraz, who also dropped a catch, defended his own conduct, saying that his mistake did not hurt the team. “I admit that I dropped a catch but that batsman was out in the next over so it did not really hurt the team.”

Head coach and chief selector Misbah also came to the skipper’s rescue. When a journalist questioned the Karachi native’s performance, he sarcastically replied: “Yes, just the wicketkeeper is not performing. The rest are doing fine.”

Misbah said he takes the responsibility of the historic defeat but was quick to remind that he took over the set up just recently.

“Of course, the responsibility falls on me but this is the same team that has been playing for four years. How much would I have coached in 10 days?"

Nonetheless, Misbah admitted that his team was outplayed by the tourists.

“The performance of the Sri Lankan teams is an example for us. They outclassed us completely. We did not beat them in any of the three departments. All matches and the series were one-sided. We need to find the answers to a lot of questions. This was disappointing,” he said.

The head coach said that the team missed veterans Mohammad Hafeez and Shoaib Malik, who he said were hounded by the media following the World Cup.

“This was an eye-opener for us and you as well. The way we go after the seniors. What we did in the World Cup. We forget their performances. These two (Hafeez and Malik) play the spinners so well and we had this problem for the entire series. We were unable to pick their leg spinner,” he said, hinting that we may not have seen the last of the pair.

Misbah also came to the surprising misfiring Babar Azam, saying: “Babar was unable to time the ball but to say that he was playing for himself is unfair. Sri Lanka were bowling fine and we could not adapt ourselves to the pitch.”

Similarly, he rejected the insinuation that Fakhar Zaman had been underperforming. “People should think before asking questions. If Fakhar Zaman has performed just once [since the Champions Trophy final], then how come his average is of 47?”

He also said that Abid Ali does not currently have the T20I stats to warrant a place in the side. “How do I pick him when he averages 20 and his strike rate is 104.”

“If I pick him based on these numbers you’d shoot me,” he quipped.

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China urges 'respect' of Syria sovereignty as Turkey attacks

China said on Thursday that Syria's sovereignty and territorial integrity "must be respected" after Turkish forces launched a military operation into Kurdish-controlled areas in the country's northeast.

Turkey's President Recep Tayyip Erdogan confirmed on Wednesday a bombardment on the region that sent thousands of civilians fleeing their homes.

The assault followed US President Donald Trump's announcement of a military pullback from the Turkey-Syria border — a decision that prompted fury from US lawmakers, who warned withdrawing US troops could reverse gains against the militant Islamic State group.

Erdogan links the Kurdish fighters to separatist militants at home and brands them "terrorists," with US troops effectively serving as a buffer in the region before the announcement of their withdrawal.

"China always believes that Syria's sovereignty, independence and territorial integrity must be respected and upheld," foreign ministry spokesman Geng Shuang said at a regular press conference on Thursday.

"We have noticed that all parties are generally worried about the possible consequences of Turkey's military operation, and urged Turkey to exercise restraint," Geng said.

The international community should work together to create conditions for a political settlement of the Syrian issue and "avoid adding new and complicated factors to the situation," he added.

Nato chief Jens Stoltenberg urged Turkey on Wednesday to show "restraint", while acknowledging that Ankara had "legitimate security concerns".

Trump on Wednesday called Turkey's incursion into Syria a "bad idea".

Erdogan visited Beijing in July, months after Turkey became one of the only Muslim-majority countries to have criticised China over the detention of an estimated one million ethnic Uighurs and other mostly Muslim minorities in the western Xinjiang region.

But Erdogan struck a softer tone after meeting Chinese President Xi Jinping, saying a solution to the Uighur issue could be found by "taking into account the sensitivities" of both sides.

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PM Imran tasks Noor-ul-Haq Qadri with contacting JUI-F leadership

Prime Minister Imran Khan has asked Religious Affairs Minister Noor-ul-Haq Qadri to come up with a plan to cope up with Maulana Fazlur Rehman's Azad March, starting Oct 27.

Sources said the prime minister has telephoned the minister and tasked him with contacting the JUI-F leadership and chalking out a plan to deal with protesters.

The sources said the prime minister has sought details of the JUI-F's plan.

The prime minister has also asked the minister to present recommendations with regard to the protest that Maulana plans to hold at the end of this month in the federal capital.

The sources said that the premier would hold consultations in a meeting in the light of recommendations presented by the religious affairs minister.

They said the minister is also expected to contact the JUI-F Ameer.

Maulana Fazlur Rehman on Wednesday said that participants of his march would enter Islamabad on October 31.

Earlier, the party had announced to hold the protest on October 27 and sought permission from local authorities for a gathering near Islamabad's D-Chowk.

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Sri Lanka complete 3-0 Twenty20 whitewash over world number one Pakistan

Sri Lanka defeated Pakistan by 13 runs to win the third and final Twenty20 international in Lahore on Wednesday, routing the world number one team 3-0 in the series.

Sri Lanka scored 147-7 with debutant Oshada Fernando scoring a brilliant 48-ball 78 not out with three sixes and eight boundaries. For Pakistan, paceman Mohammad Amir took 3-27.

Pakistan were then undone by leg-spinner Wanindu Hasaranga who took 3-21 as they managed 134-6 in 20 overs.

Sri Lanka made five changes to check their bench strength, bringing in Sadeera Samarawickrama, Angelo Perera, Oshada Fernando, Lahiru Madushanka and Lahiru Kumara. They replaced Minod Bhanuka, Shehan Jayasuriya, Avishka Fernando, Isuru Udana and Nuwan Pradeep.

Pakistan left out the misfiring Ahmed Shehzad and Umar Akmal while fast bowler Mohammad Hasnain was rested. They were replaced by Haris Sohail, Iftikhar Ahmed and Usman Shinwari.

On Monday, Sri Lanka’s second-string side humbled Pakistan by 35 runs in the second T20I to seal the series and leave the hosts scrambling to avoid a whitewash at home.

The venue for today's game, Gaddafi Stadium, was decked out in pink after the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) joined hands with Pink Ribbon to create awareness about breast cancer.

"The stumps for the last #PAKvSL T20I are being branded in pink. All sponsors of the series have also changed their branding colours in the ground to pink," the PCB said in a tweet.

Teams

Pakistan: Fakhar Zaman, Babar Azam, Haris Sohail, Iftikhar Ahmed, Sarfraz Ahmed (capt, wk), Asif Ali, Imad Wasim, Shadab Khan, Wahab Riaz, Mohammad Amir, Usman Shinwari

Sri Lanka: Danushka Gunathilaka, Sadeera Samarawickrama (wk), Bhanuka Rajapaksa, Angelo Perera, Oshada Fernando, Dasun Shanaka (capt), Wanindu Hasaranga, Lahiru Madushanka, Lakshan Sandakan, Kasun Rajitha, Lahiru Kumara

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Altaf Hussain charged by UK police with terrorism offence over 2016 speech

A UK court has banned Muttahida Qaumi Movement (MQM) founder Altaf Hussain from appearing on any form of media in the UK or Pakistan, after Scotland Yard charged him with a terrorism offence on Thursday in the incitement speech inquiry against him.

Hussain was presented before the Westminster Magistrates' court where his lawyers pleaded for bail. But the judge imposed strict conditional bail restrictions, ordering that Hussain should stay under curfew at a specified address every night, and that he will not be allowed to travel without the court's permission.

Altaf Hussain's formal trial will now start on November 1 at the Central Criminal Court for case management.

Hussain appeared at Southwark Police Station in South London for the third time in four months on Thursday to face police grilling in relation to the incitement speech inquiry.

Hussain was charged for Intentionally Encouraging or Assisting Offences, Contrary to Section 44 of the Serious Crime Act 2007 in relation in relation to his August 16, 2016 speech from London and the violence that followed in Karachi because of that speech.

But, for the third time, Hussain refused to answer the questions. His lawyers told police that their client would not answer questions of the police in the incitement speech probe.

The MQM founder was accompanied by his London-based lieutenants during the appearance. Inside the police station, he was accompanied by a two-member legal team of English lawyers. In his previous interviews, the MQM founder had decided to go for “no comment” — refusing to answer the questions of the police.

After his arrest in June this year, the MQM founder was called again to appear at the police station for questioning in the second week of July, and then again in September this year.

Hussain was grilled for almost five hours at the Southwark police station in connection with the same case and was released after his bail was extended.

The MQM founder was arrested on June 11, 2019, during a dawn raid at his home and taken to a south London police station. Scotland Yard at the time had said Hussain had been arrested on suspicion of intentionally encouraging or assisting offences contrary to Section 44 of the Serious Crime Act 2007.

The UK authorities launched the investigations into the matter after an FIR was lodged in Karachi naming the MQM leader as the instigator. Pakistan then approached UK to investigate the case.

Scotland Yard confirmed last year that an ‘International Letter of Request’ has been sent by the Crown Prosecution Service (CPS) to the Pakistani authorities, seeking help in its investigations in relation to at least two speeches made by the MQM founder.

 

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Pakistan is peace loving nation, desires harmonious relations with all countries: CJCSC

Chairman Joint Chiefs of Staff Committee General Zubair Mahmood Hayat has said Pakistan's armed forces are fully capable, prepared and motivated to respond to the entire spectrum of threats.

Addressing the passing out parade of PAF cadets at Asghar Khan Academy in Risalpur today (Thursday), he said being sons of the soil, we will defend the motherland with our sweat and blood with the support of the nation.

General Zubair Mahmood Hayat said Pakistan is a peace loving nation and desires harmonious relations with all countries especially the neighbours. He, however, said this desire must not be construed wrongly.

He said as a nation we have rendered great human and material sacrifices for lasting peace in the region. He categorically stated that Pakistan will not make any compromise on the interest of its nation, territorial integrity and sovereignty. He said Pakistan will not allow any country or hostile agency to misrepresent our intent or action.

Chairman Joint Chiefs of Staff Committee said Pakistan is a responsible nuclear state and has noted the pronouncements from the eastern border indicating possible changes in policy and posture in various aspects of nuclear domain.

He said Pakistan has kept a close eye on the strategic force development and deployment of the ballistic missile defense. He said Pakistan has a credible, potent, reliable and effective strategic capability which will continue to provide full range of real options to the national command authority. He said our policy of full spectrum deterrence underpin our national strategy in this regard.

The Chairman Joint Chiefs of Staff Committee said Pakistan's strategic and nuclear programme is fundamental part of our national security construct. He said Pakistan will continue to maintain strategic balance in South Asia at all costs without indulging in the arms race.

Referring to the fascist and racist policies of India, General Zubair said these pose threat to the whole region. 

He said Pakistan Air Force once against proved its superiority when it took the enemy by surprise. He appreciated the PAF for shooting down the two aircraft of the enemy in the dogfight and arresting one of the pilots.

The Chairman Joint Chiefs of Staff Committee said there can be no lasting peace in South Asia without the just settlement of Kashmir dispute. He said Pakistan rejects forceful annexation of occupied Kashmir by India. This is illegal and not acceptable to Kashmiris or Pakistan.

Strongly condemning the blatant human rights violations in occupied Kashmir, he said the indefinite curfew and lockdown in the held valley is a blot on the human conscience. He said Pakistan will continue its moral, diplomatic and political support to their Kashmiri brethern. He said Kashmir runs in our blood because Kashmir is Pakistan and Pakistan is Kashmir.

Referring to Afghanistan, the Chairman Joint Chiefs of Staff Committee said Pakistan has meaningfully contributed to regional peace and stability. He said despite recent events, Pakistan shall continue all out efforts for the Afghan peace process which leads to an enduring peace and stability in Afghanistan.

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Pakistan, Turkey agrees to establish Center of Excellence in Tourism

Pakistan and Turkey agreed to establish a Centre of Excellence in Tourism and Hospitality Management in Islamabad.

The project was given final shape during a meeting between Shafqat Mahmood, Federal Minister for Education, Professional Training and National Heritage and Dr Serdar Çam, Deputy Minister for Culture and Tourism of Turkey in Ankara, a message reaching here said.

Both sides also explored further opportunities for collaboration in education, technical training, culture and tourism sector.

Briefing the Turkish dignitary about potential of tourism sector of Pakistan, Shafqat Mahmood said domestic tourism in Pakistan reached its peak during current year but stressed on the need for more efforts to attract more foreign tourists.
He also conveyed his gratitude to the people and leadership of Turkey for standing by Pakistan on issues of its core national interest, particularly Kashmir issue.

He also assured Pakistan’s support on issues that concerns Turkey.

Both sides expressed the hope that the upcoming Pakistan visit of Turkish President Erdogan will provide further momentum to bilateral ties.

Earlier, Pakistan delegation led by Shafqat Mehmood visited Turkish Cooperation and Coordination Agency (TIKA) headquarters and were briefed by its Vice President Prof Dr Birol Çetin about the organization’s global as well as Pakistan operations.

He informed that since 2010 when TIKA office was established in Pakistan, TIKA has undertaken about 148 projects in Pakistan in various sectors focusing on education, health, skills development, employment generation and women empowerment.

Turkish side showed keen desire to do more projects in the area of technical education and vocational training.

Minister Shafqat Mahmood said Pakistan is establishing National Skills University in Islamabad and the proposed Centre of Excellence in Hospitality and Tourism Management will part of it as its campus.

He said Pakistan government is revising national education curriculum in order to make it relevant to market needs. This will include technical education and vocational training as a priority area, he added.

Ali Sahin, Chairman of Turkey-Pakistan Friendship Group of the Grand National Assembly of Turkey, hosted luncheon in honour of Minister Shafqat Mahmood and accompanying delegation.

Pakistan delegation later visited Turkish Parliament and observed its proceedings. As a show of solidarity with Turkey, they visited the site in Parliament building bombed during the July 15, 2016 failed coup.

Visiting Turkey at the invitation of TIKA and led by Minister Shafqat Mahmood, Pakistan delegation included Wajiha Akram, Parliamentary Secretary for Ministry of Federal Education and Professional Training, Syed Javed Hassan, Chairman, National Vocational and Technical Training Commission (NAVTTC), Dr Nasir Khan, Executive Director NAVTTC and Naeem Siddiqui, Director General, NAVTTC.

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Soldier martyred of unprovoked firing by Indian troops along LoC

Indian troops resorted to unprovoked firing on Baroh and Chirikot sectors along the line of control, martyring one soldier and injuring two women.

According to the ISPR, Pakistani troops targeted Indian Army posts in response.

There are reports of casualties to the Indian troops.

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Peoples’ Party Announces Support For Azadi March

Pakistan Peoples’ Party (PPP) Chairman Bilawal Bhutto Zardari on Wednesday while announcing complete support for Jamiat Ulema-e-Islam-Fazl (JUI-F) chief Maulana Fazlur Rehman’s ant-government protest said that his party would welcome Azadi March.

Addressing a press conference in Karachi on Wednesday after party’s core committee meeting, he complained of not even knowing where Fazlur Rehman’s protest would be held.

“We have not yet been told, however, we announce complete support for the JUI-F,” he said and added the Sindh will also support the Azadi March.

The PPP chairman while accusing the government said that the incompetent government has ruined the country’s economy, adding that the incumbent government doesn’t have the capability to resolve issues of general public.

Bilawal went on to say that his mass contact campaign is underway and a public gathering will be held on October 18 over Karsaz incident in Karachi.

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Pak-China agrees on early implementation of China-Pakistan Free Trade Agreement

Pakistan and China have reaffirmed their firm resolve to further strengthening Pakistan-China All-Weather Strategic Cooperative Partnership aimed at building a Community of Shared Future in the New Era.

This resolve was expressed in a joint statement issued in Beijing on the conclusion of Prime Minister Imran Khan's two-day official visit to China.

The two sides observed that the close ties, deep-rooted friendship and strategic partnership between Pakistan and China served the fundamental interests of the two countries and peoples, and contributed to peace, stability and development in the region. They also reaffirmed their support on issues concerning each other's core interests.

Chinese leaders reiterated solidarity with Pakistan in safeguarding its territorial sovereignty, independence and security.

The Pakistan side reaffirmed its commitment to the One China Policy. Supporting One Country Two Systems, Pakistan reiterated that affairs of Hong Kong are China's internal matter and all countries should uphold international law and basic norms of non-interference in internal affairs of other countries.

The Pakistan side briefed the Chinese side on the situation in Jammu and Kashmir, including its concerns, position, and current urgent issues.

The Chinese side responded that it is paying close attention to the current situation in Occupied Kashmir and reiterated that the Kashmir issue is a dispute left from history, and should be properly and peacefully resolved based on the UN Charter, relevant UN Security Council resolutions and bilateral agreements. China opposes any unilateral actions that complicate the situation.

Pakistan side underscored that the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor is a transformational project. Both sides maintained that the second phase of CPEC will promote industrial and socio-economic development in Pakistan.

Pakistan side also underlined that the Gwadar Port has been granted various facilities enabling it to become a trade and logistical hub for the region. The two sides expressed determination to speedily execute CPEC so that its growth potential can be fully realized.

The two sides maintained that the ninth session of the Joint Cooperation Committee (JCC) to be held next month in Islamabad would further fast-track implementation of the ongoing projects and explore new avenues of cooperation, including ML-1.

They underlined that Chinese investment in Special Economic Zones and collaboration in Small and Medium Enterprise sector would further expand Pakistan's industrial base and diversify its export base.

Both sides agreed to jointly study identified projects by the Pakistan side in power, petroleum, gas, agriculture, industrial and infrastructure sectors.

They underlined that educational links between the two countries are becoming stronger. Prime Minister Imran Khan thanked Chinese leadership for providing opportunities to Pakistani students to study in China.

He hoped that those students will play an important role in further deepening historic and deep-rooted ties between the two iron brothers.

The two sides agreed that early implementation of the Second Phase of the China-Pakistan Free Trade Agreement would contribute to increase in bilateral trade. Both sides decided to take full advantage of the China-Pakistan Joint Economic and Trade Commission to achieve balanced and sustainable development of bilateral economic and trade cooperation.

Reaffirming that there is no military solution to Afghanistan problem, the two sides agreed that peace and stability in Afghanistan is vital for regional security.

The Chinese side appreciated Pakistan's efforts in promoting peace and reconciliation process in Afghanistan. Both sides maintained that an inclusive, and Afghan-led and Afghan-owned peace process would be key to bring peace and stability in the country.

During the visit, Prime Minister Imran Khan and his Chinese counterpart Li Keqiang witnessed the signing of various agreements and Memorandums of Understanding.

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Azadi March: Fazl says JUI-F protesters to converge on Islamabad on Oct 31

Jamiat Ulema-i-Islam Fazl Ameer Maulana Fazlur Rehman on Wednesday said the participants of his Azadi March will converge on Islamabad on October 31.

Speaking to the media, he said that although the march will start on October 27, it will take three to four days for workers from far-off areas to arrive in the federal capital.

Explaining the reason behind his decision to begin the march on October 27, he said it was because his party wanted to express solidarity with people of occupied Kashmir.

Kashmiris observe Black Day on October 27 to mark the landing of Indian troops in Srinagar, same day in 1947.

Maulana Fazl said the participants of Azadi March from across the country will gather near Tarnol before entering Islamabad on October 31.

Meanwhile, the JUI-F has sought permission to hold Azai March at D-Chowk Islamabad on October 27.

According to a letter written to Chief Commissioner Islamabad, the JUI-F will be holding the march on October 27 while exercising its democratic and constitutional right under Article 16 and 17 against the government.

The letter said the march will be led by JUI-F chief Maulana Fazlur Rehman and attended by senior party leadership and a large gathering of party workers and supporters.

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Sri Lanka complete 3-0 Twenty20 whitewash over world number one Pakistan

Sri Lanka defeated Pakistan by 13 runs to win the third and final Twenty20 international in Lahore on Wednesday, routing the world number one team 3-0 in the series.

Sri Lanka scored 147-7 with debutant Oshada Fernando scoring a brilliant 48-ball 78 not out with three sixes and eight boundaries. For Pakistan, paceman Mohammad Amir took 3-27.

Pakistan were then undone by leg-spinner Wanindu Hasaranga who took 3-21 as they managed 134-6 in 20 overs.

Sri Lanka made five changes to check their bench strength, bringing in Sadeera Samarawickrama, Angelo Perera, Oshada Fernando, Lahiru Madushanka and Lahiru Kumara. They replaced Minod Bhanuka, Shehan Jayasuriya, Avishka Fernando, Isuru Udana and Nuwan Pradeep.

Pakistan left out the misfiring Ahmed Shehzad and Umar Akmal while fast bowler Mohammad Hasnain was rested. They were replaced by Haris Sohail, Iftikhar Ahmed and Usman Shinwari.

On Monday, Sri Lanka’s second-string side humbled Pakistan by 35 runs in the second T20I to seal the series and leave the hosts scrambling to avoid a whitewash at home.

The venue for today's game, Gaddafi Stadium, was decked out in pink after the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) joined hands with Pink Ribbon to create awareness about breast cancer.

"The stumps for the last #PAKvSL T20I are being branded in pink. All sponsors of the series have also changed their branding colours in the ground to pink," the PCB said in a tweet.

Teams

Pakistan: Fakhar Zaman, Babar Azam, Haris Sohail, Iftikhar Ahmed, Sarfraz Ahmed (capt, wk), Asif Ali, Imad Wasim, Shadab Khan, Wahab Riaz, Mohammad Amir, Usman Shinwari

Sri Lanka: Danushka Gunathilaka, Sadeera Samarawickrama (wk), Bhanuka Rajapaksa, Angelo Perera, Oshada Fernando, Dasun Shanaka (capt), Wanindu Hasaranga, Lahiru Madushanka, Lakshan Sandakan, Kasun Rajitha, Lahiru Kumara

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China expresses support for Pakistan's interests, Kashmir stance

Prime Minister Imran Khan and Chinese President Xi Jinping met on Wednesday to discuss bilateral relations, the regional situation and other matters of mutual interest.

According to a Foreign Office (FO) press release, the meeting was followed by a luncheon banquet hosted by President Xi in honour of the premier.

He was accompanied by Foreign Minister Shah Mahmood Qureshi, Minister for Planning, Development and Reform Khusro Bakhtiar, Federal Minister for Railways Sheikh Rashid Ahmad, Adviser to the Prime Minister for Commerce, Textile, Industries, Production and Investment Abdul Razzak Dawood, Special Assistant to the Prime Minister on Energy and Chairman Board of Investment Zubair Gillani. Chief of Army Staff (COAS) Gen Qamar Javed Bajwa, DG ISI Lt Gen Faiz Hameed and other officials were also present in the meeting.

According to a PM Office press release, the premier thanked President Xi and the Chinese government for its "principled stance" on the Kashmir issue, particularly mentioning Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi's stance on the issue at the United Nations General Assembly.

The premier said that China had supported Pakistan in all difficult times.

According to the press release, Prime Minister Imran briefed Xi about the current situation in the country, sharing that Pakistan had come out of a difficult economic situation.

"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".

Prime Minister Imran said that China provided Pakistan with the opportunity to come out of a very difficult economic situation and appreciated the Chinese support under the China Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) framework.

"Pakistan and China are all-weather friends and strategic cooperative partners."

The premier congratulated the Chinese president on the 70th anniversary of the founding of the People's Republic of China and thanked him for the warm welcome the Pakistani delegation had received in Beijing.

President Xi lauded the premier for speaking about Pakistan and China's relations during the UNGA, and said that both countries enjoy close friendly relations and cooperated with each other in different fields.

As per the FO press release, both leaders agreed that a peaceful and stable Afghanistan would promote economic development and connectivity in the region while expressing resolve to continue to support the peace and reconciliation process in Afghanistan.

Xi's visit to India

Meanwhile, Foreign Minister Qureshi, while referring to the Kashmir situation, on Tuesday said that the two countries have shared a joint strategy since India moved to revoke Article 370. He said that when Prime Minister Imran had spoken at the UNGA, the Chinese state council in his statement had also mentioned Kashmir and expressed his concern.

Qureshi also spoke briefly about President Xi's upcoming "brief, informal" visit to India.

"It was his desire and ours to take each other into confidence [ahead of the visit]," the foreign minister shared, adding that once the visit concludes, the Chinese leadership will keep Pakistan fully informed.

"The nature of our relations is such that we take each other into confidence at every step," Qureshi said.

Qureshi said they were grateful for the invitation to China, adding that Prime Minister Imran had extended a counter invitation to his Chinese counterpart, Li Keqiang, to visit Pakistan and would also extend an invitation to President Xi.

He shared that this was the premier's third visit to China in 13 months and Pakistan wanted to reciprocate the hospitality they had received to the Chinese leadership.

PM meets Chinese premier

On Tuesday, the prime minister had met with Premier Li during which the two exchanged views on bilateral trade and economic partnership, and explored ways of increasing Pakistan’s exports to China.

According to a PM Office press release, both the leaders agreed that the implementation of the second phase of China-Pakistan Free Trade Agreement (FTA) would lead to more trade, economic and investment opportunities between the two countries. Other areas of potential collaboration discussed in the meeting included railways, steel, oil and gas, industry and science and technology.

Prime Minister Imran also held a series of meetings with the heads of major groups of companies in China dealing in oil and gas, mining, iron and steel, textile, power and energy sectors and invited them to invest in Pakistan.

Qureshi said that various memoranda of understanding (MoUs) had been signed, including in the education sector, for a desalination plant, one for disabled persons and one for narcotics control.

Read: 'Wish I could follow President Xi's example and put 500 corrupt people in Pakistan in jail,' says PM Imran

The prime minister had addressed the China Council for Promotion of International Trade after his arrival in Beijing, during which he expressed his desire to put 500 corrupt people in Pakistan behind bars, "just as President Xi had done", to rid the country of corruption that he said was "one of the biggest impediments to investment".

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5.2-magnitude quake jolts parts of KP; no losses reported

A 5.2-magnitude earthquake shook parts of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa on Wednesday afternoon, sending people out of buildings and on to the streets.

The epicentre of the quake was in the Hindu Kush region in Afghanistan, according to data released by the Pakistan Meteorological Department (PMD).

The 5.2 magnitude trembler struck at 3:44pm and was at a depth of 180 kilometres, the PMD said.

 

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PM Imran, Chinese President discuss regional situation

Prime Minister Imran Khan held a meeting with Chinese President Xi Jinping in Beijing today and discussed the entire spectrum of bilateral relations, regional situation and matters of mutual interests.

Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan has arrived here on Tuesday on a two-day visit to China during which he will hold talks with the top Chinese leadership, including President Xi Jinping, and discuss issues of regional and bilateral significance.

Prime Minister Khan was received by Chinese Minister for Culture Luo Shugang, Ambassador of China to Pakistan Yao Jing and the Pakistan officials, Pakistan's state-run.

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Pakistan, China sign MoUs to enhance regional trade and connectivity

Foreign Minister Shah Mahmood Qureshi said Pakistan shared its assessment and feedback from the Indian Occupied Kashmir with the Chinese leadership.

While talking to the media at Diaoyutai State Guest House in Beijing, Foreign Minister Shah Mahmood Qureshi said both the sides also discussed the Afghan peace process.

Shah Mahmood Qureshi said China, Russia and other regional countries want peace and reconciliation in Afghanistan and the development in the region for which Pakistan is playing its role.                      

The foreign minister said the Chinese leadership had been taken into confidence on all the issues.   

Regarding facilities to the Chinese investors and entrepreneurs, he said the CPEC Authority had been established to provide all facilities to them as early as possible.                                                  

The Foreign Minister said an MoU signed between the two countries is related to the development of Gwadar Port and to make it a hub of regional trade and connectivity.         

He said under another MoU, to redress water shortage in Gwadar, a desalination plant of 5000 tons of water per day would be set up by China to provide clean water to Gwadar port and the new Gwadar city.      

The two countries would enhance cooperation in education sector and in this regard an MoU has been signed with Higher Education Commission for smart classrooms.

Another MoU was inked to improve the lives of disabled people as they will be provided with equipment and chair.      

Similarly, both the countries agreed to help each other for narcotics control and China would give equipment to Pakistan for the purpose.

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Shehbaz Sharif summons high-level party meeting today

Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) president Shehbaz Sharif has summoned a high-level party meeting today (Wednesday) to take important decisions regarding JUI-F’s Azadi March.

The PML-N leader will take the party into confidence about his non-participation into Jamiat Ulema-i-Islam Fazl’s Azadi March.

Raja Zafar-ul-Haq, Ahsan Iqbal, Ayaz Sadiq, Khawaja Asif and other PML-N leaders will attend a meeting, said sources.

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Gen Bajwa, Chinese military leadership discuss Kashmir, regional security

The Chinese military leadership on Tuesday supported the stance of Pakistan on the lingering occupied Kashmir dispute with India, according to a press release issued by the Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR).

The affirmation was made when Chief of Army Staff General Qamar Javed Bajwa met General Han Weiguo and General Xu Qiliang of the People’s Liberation Army in Beijing. Issues of regional security and defence cooperation were discussed in the meeting.

According to the statement, the COAS apprised the Chinese military leadership about consequences of the ongoing situation in Indian-occupied Kashmir, and said that India needed to respect United Nations resolution in this regard and ensure provision of human rights to Kashmiris.

"Chinese military leadership supported Pakistan’s principled stance on Kashmir issue, and appreciated sane Pakistani approach in the interest of peace," the ISPR stated.

The ISPR also said that in the meeting, the two sides agreed that continued Pak-India tension would have serious implications for peace and stability in the region.

The media wing of the military also told the media that the COAS apprised the Chinese military leadership about the peace efforts made by Pakistan, and said that the efforts would not be at the cost of any compromise on principles or honour and dignity of the nation.

Both sides also discussed the developing situation in the Gulf region and efforts for peace in Afghanistan, the press release said. They also agreed to enhance existing defence cooperation in line with history of mutual time-tested relationship.

Earlier upon arrival at the PLA headquarters, COAS was presented with a guard of honour. COAS General Bajwa is likely to meet high-ranking Chinese officials along with Prime Minister Imran Khan on his trip.

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UN may run out of money by end of the month: Guterres

The United Nations is running a deficit of $230 million, Secretary General Antonio Guterres said on Monday, and may run out of money by the end of October.

In a letter intended for the 37,000 employees at the UN secretariat and obtained by AFP, Guterres said unspecified "additional stop-gap measures" would have to be taken to ensure salaries and entitlements are paid.

"Member States have paid only 70 per cent of the total amount needed for our regular budget operations in 2019. This translates into a cash shortage of $230 million at the end of September. We run the risk of depleting our backup liquidity reserves by the end of the month," he wrote.

To cut costs, Guterres mentioned postponing conferences and meetings and reducing services, while also restricting official travel to only essential activities and taking measures to save energy.

Guterres had asked member states earlier this year to up contributions to the world body to head off cash flow problems, but they refused, a UN official said on condition of anonymity.

"The ultimate responsibility for our financial health lies with Member States," Guterres said.

Not including what it pays for peacekeeping operations, the UN's operating budget for 2018-2019 is close to $5.4 billion, with the United States contributing 22 per cent.

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Saudi Arabia welcomes 24,000 tourists in 10 days

Saudi Arabia welcomed 24,000 tourists in the 10 days after it issued tourism visas for the first time, the Saudi state television reported on Tuesday.

Saudi Arabia announced on September 27 it would start offering tourist visas, opening up the kingdom to holidaymakers as part of a push to diversify its economy away from oil.

“In 10 days, some 24,000 foreigners entered Saudi Arabia on a tourist visa,” the television reported, citing the Saudi foreign ministry.

Up until September 27, the ultra-conservative Islamic state only issued visas to Muslim pilgrims, foreign workers and recently to spectators at sporting or cultural events.

To encourage arrivals, authorities announced on Sunday they would allow unmarried foreign couples to rent hotel rooms together.

Kickstarting tourism is one of the centre pieces of Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman's Vision 2030 reform programme to prepare the Arab world's largest economy for a post-oil era.

Citizens from 49 countries are now eligible for online e-visas or visas on arrival, including the United States, Australia, several European nations, Malaysia, Singapore, South Korea, China and Kazakhstan.

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Ali Amin Gandapur sends legal notice to Maulana Fazl

Federal Minister for Kashmir Affairs and Gilgit-Baltistan Ali Amin Gandapur served a legal notice to Jamiat Ulema-e- Islam Chief Maulana Fazl-ur-Rehman on Tuesday.The federal minister had announced to take action against the JUI-F leader a day ago.

The minister said that Fazl has been issuing incendiary speeches after losing the elections last year, adding that he would initiate legal action if the JUI-F leader fails to respond within 15 days.

Gandapur said that he has ‘a lot of evidence to get him (Fazl) sentenced’.

JUI-F leader Hafiz Hamdullah said that the action against Maulana Fazl is only to stop the march and these steps are only mean to incite, which can cause contention.

He further said that the minister can send the legal notice by all means, but the march will take place.

On Monday, Punjab's minister for colonies, Fayyaz ul Hassan Chohan, requested that the National Accountability Bureau (NAB) probe Maulana Fazlur Rehman.

Chohan — a leader of the ruling Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf's (PTI) — said the NAB should question and investigate Fazl over railways and alleged fraud pertaining to the martyrs' estates.

The JUI-F chief has announced Azad March in the federal capital on Oct 27.

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PM Imran wants to follow China, wishes he had power to lock up 500 powerful Pakistanis for corruption

Prime Minister Imran Khan on Tuesday said corruption was one of the biggest impediments to investments coming into the country.

Addressing the China Council for Promotion of International Trade, PM Imran said the government was committed to providing an investor-friendly environment.

Hailing the economic progress made by China, the prime minister said the way it [China]has lifted seven hundred million people out of poverty in the last thirty years was an example for the whole world.

He also appreciated President Xi Jinping's campaign against corruption.

“One of President’s Xi’s crusades has been against corruption and from I hear that some 400 ministerial-level people in the last five years have been convicted of corruption and put behind jail,” PM Imran said.

He continued, “This is important not only for Pakistan but for most of the developing world because corruption stops investment. Corruption is one of the biggest impediments to the investments coming into your country.”

“Firms will invest in economies that are cleaner,” the prime minister said.

“I wish I could follow President Xi’s example and put 500 corrupt people in Pakistan in jail,” PM Imran lamented.

The prime minister also invited the Chinese companies to invest in the diverse sectors of Pakistan including housing, textile, manufacturing, IT and financial services, physical and technological logistics, agriculture, oil and gas and tourism and hospitality.

He added, “Pakistan is opening up for the businesses and it was a great time for the Chinese companies to invest in the country.”

Assuring the participants that the prime minister’s office will be dealing with all the major investments, PM Imran said all CPEC related investments will also be dealt from the PM office in order to remove all the hurdles in the way of investors.

He added Pakistan was encouraging the businesses to make big profits as the wealth creation will enable us to lift the people out of poverty on the pattern of China.

Speaking about Gawadar, the prime minister said Gwadar smart port city master plan has been approved. "Work on Gwadar airport is in progress and it will be completed soon," PM Imran said, "We are now especially concentrating on our Special Economic Zones."

The premier further said Pakistan was encouraging businesses to make big profits as the wealth creation will enable us to lift the people out of poverty on the pattern of China.

He added the present government has also liberalized the visa regime so that the Chinese can get the visas on arrival at the airport. "This facility has been extended to many other countries as well," he noted.

Alluding to the geo-strategic location of Pakistan, the prime minister said Pakistan's unique location and its young and vibrant population makes it the attractive country for investment.

"Our labour cost is only about twenty per cent of what is in China. Our government has taken a conscious decision to ensure ease of doing business. Pakistan has made the biggest strides in ease of doing business in the world," he said.

PM Imran arrived at Beijing’s great hall later in the day, where he received a warm welcome.

The PM met with his Chinese counterpart, and was presented a guard of honour.

The prime minister arrived in Beijing on Tuesday on a two-day visit to hold meetings with the Chinese leadership. During his visit, PM Imran will meet with Chinese President Xi Jinping and Premier Li Keqiang.

Both Chinese leaders will separately host banquets in honour of the prime minister. A number of agreements and MoUs are expected to be signed at a ceremony to be witnessed by the two prime ministers.

PM Imran also held a series of meetings with representatives of Chinese companies in Beijing and invited them to invest in Pakistan.

China Gezhouba Group Chairman Lyu Zexiang called on the prime minister in a meeting attended by Foreign Minister Shah Mehmood Qureshi, Planning Minister Khusro Bakhtiar, Railways Minister Sheikh Rashid, Commerce Adviser Razak Dawood, Special Assistant Nadeem Babar and Chairman Board of Investment Zubair Gillani.

In another meeting, the prime minister met the CEO of Long March Tyre Company Li Qingwen and discussed investment and business scenario.

Chairman of Board Orient Holdings Group Limited Jiang Xueming also called on the prime minister and discussed industrial matters.

In another meeting, Chairman China Metallurgical Group Corporation (MCC) Guo Wenqing also met PM Imran.

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President promulgates Ordinance for establishment of CPEC Authority

President Dr. Arif Alvi has promulgated an Ordinance for establishment of the China Pakistan Economic Corridor Authority.

It aimed at accelerating the pace of CPEC related activities, find new drivers of growth, unlock the potential of interlinked production network and global value chains through regional and global connectivity.

In August, Prime Minister Imran Khan announced that the government was forming CPECA to ensure the timely completion of the corridor's projects. He had said that CPECA would help ensure coordination among the departments concerned.

"The completion of CPEC will not only benefit Pakistan and China, but also the entire region," the premier had said, adding that the timely completion of CPEC projects was the top-most priority of the government and CPEC is a clear example of joint efforts and partnership between Pakistan and China.

The president's promulgation of the ordinance for establishing CPECA coincides with Prime Minister Imran's visit to Beijing which will include talks on the progress of CPEC.

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Lockdown continues on 65th consecutive day in IoK

The inhumane curfew in the Indian occupied Jammu and Kashmir is continued on the 65th consecutive day on Tuesday.

All shops, main markets and educational institutions continue to remain shut and public transport off the road in Kashmir valley as a mark of silent protest against the repeal of the special status of the territory by India, Kashmir Media Service (KMS) reported.

Indian occupation troops have arrested youth during search operations, whereas, Srinagar’s Jamia Masjid was locked and its routes were closed by placing barbed wires.

The people continue to face immense hardships due to the heavy presence of Indian troops in every nook and corner and suspension of means of communication. The continuous lockdown creates a severe shortage of food and medicines across the occupied valley.

Human Rights Watch (HRW) demanded the Indian authorities for ending lockdown in occupied Kashmir, saying that New Delhi will have to give reply over rising concerns of the global community.

The organisation also demanded to hold a thorough investigation into arrests of underage persons in the occupied valley.

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Chinese Group shows keen interest in exploring new business avenues in Pakistan

Chairman China Gezhouba Group Lyu Zexiang called on Prime Minister in Beijing today and discussed cooperation in the energy sector.

The Chinese Group showed keen interest in exploring new business avenues in Pakistan especially in the energy sector.

Foreign Minister Shah Mahmood Qureshi, Minister for Planning Makhdoom Khusro Bakhtiar, Minister for Railways Sheikh Rashid, Adviser on Commerce Razaq Dawood, Special Assistant on Petroleum Nadeem Babar and Chairman Board of Investment (BOI) Zubair Gilani were also present in the meeting.

China Gezhouba Group Corporation (CGGC) is one of the most competitive listed companies with very strong financing capabilities. The Chinese group has expanded its business in more than one hundred countries and regions.

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PM Imran reaches In Beijing On Official Visit To China

Prime Minister Imran Khan has landed in Beijing on a three day official visit to China.

Chinese Cultural Minister Luo Shugang received him at the Airport.

Chinese Ambassador to Pakistan Yao Jing and Pakistan envoy's to China Naghmana Hashmi were also present.

Foreign Minster Shah Mehmood Qureshi, Planning Minister Khusro Bakhtiar and Chairman Board of Investment Zubair Gilani are also accompanied Prime Minister during the visit.

The Prime Minister will meet the Chinese leadership and exchange views on regional developments including the state of peace and security in South Asia arising from the situation in occupied Jammu & Kashmir since 5 August 2019.

The visit will be instrumental in further cementing Pakistan's economic, investment and strategic ties with China.

The Prime Minister will apprise the Chinese leadership of the government's recent landmark decisions to speed-up implementation of ongoing CPEC projects as well as efforts to project CPEC as a High-Quality Demonstration Project of BRI.

There will be interaction with senior representatives of the Chinese business and corporate sector for deepening bilateral trade, commercial and investment partnership.

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Blast hits bus in Afghanistan's Jalalabad, killing at least three

A suicide bomb targeted a minibus of recruits for the Afghan security forces in the eastern city of Jalalabad on Monday, killing at least three people and injuring 27, a local government source said.

The recruits were travelling to Kabul, said Sohrab Qaderi, a member of the Nangarhar provincial council. The bomb detonated in a small motorised vehicle used to haul goods.

Last month, a car bomb attack targeted an intelligence services building in Qalat, leaving at least 10 dead and 85 wounded, the governor of Zabul province had confirmed.

The blast in Zabul was the latest in a string of deadly Taliban bombings across Afghanistan — Taliban suicide bombers had killed 48 people in two separate attacks in Afghanistan two days prior, the deadliest at an election rally by President Ashraf Ghani — as violence intensified after US President Donald Trump abruptly ended talks with the Taliban over an American withdrawal from the country.

The attacks had happened 11 days before Afghanistan’s presidential election — which Taliban commanders have vowed to violently disrupt — and followed the collapsed peace talks.

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PM to hold meetings with Chinese leadership during Oct 8-9 Beijing visit: FO

Prime Minister Imran Khan and Chief of the Army Staff (COAS) General Qamar Javed Bajwa will visit China from October 8 to 9, 2019 and hold meetings with the Chinese leadership, including President Xi Jinping and Premier Li Keqiang.

A number of agreements/MoUs are expected to be signed at a ceremony to be witnessed by the two prime ministers, a foreign office statement issued here on Monday said.

President Xi Jinping and Premier Li Keqiang will separately host banquets in honour of the Prime Minister Khan, said the statement.

Prime Minister Imran Khan will be accompanied by a high-level delegation including the foreign minister, minister for railways, minister for planning, development and reform, adviser to prime minister on commerce, special assistant to prime minister on petroleum, Board of Investment (BOI) chairman and senior officials.

The Chief of Army Staff will join the prime minister’s meetings with Premier Li Keqiang and President Xi Jinping, the statement mentioned.

The visit of the prime minister was in continuation of the long-established tradition of the leadership of the two countries meeting regularly and consulting closely on bilateral, regional and international issues of mutual interest.

The prime minister will exchange views on regional developments including the state of peace and security in South Asia arising from the situation in occupied Jammu and Kashmir since August 5, it added.

The visit will be instrumental in further cementing Pakistan’s economic, investment and strategic ties with China.

Among other things, the prime minister will apprise the Chinese leadership of the government’s recent landmark decisions to speed-up implementation of the ongoing CPEC (China Pakistan Economic Corridor).

According to a foreign office statement, there will be interaction with senior representatives of the Chinese business and corporate sector as well for deepening bilateral trade, commercial and investment partnership.

The prime minister will also be participating in the closing ceremony of the Beijing International Horticulture Expo, as a chief guest, where Chinese PM Li Keqiang will be the host.

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