Bilawal shares his grandfather's historic speech urging for Pak-India peace

Chairman Pakistan Peoples’ Party Bilawal Bhutto has shared a speech of former prime minister Zulfiqar Ali Bhutto making a strong case for peace between Pakistan and India.Amid heightened tensions between the two nuclear-armed nations calls for de-escalating the situation have been made not only in the country but from the world community as well. The ex-PM can be seen stressing upon the need of a peaceful region necessary for a better tomorrow.Zulfiqar Bhutto said: “My people and the Indian people are far too poor to keep on fighting every 5-10 yrs. It's in mutual interest of two countries that we do not get intoxicated by momentarily gains & think of tomorrow.”“Because tomorrow is bound to come, a sub-continent that has a civilization of 5000 years must think in broad terms, it must think in terms of coexisting, not in terms of victor & vanquished," he further said.Despite Indian war mongering ahead of general elections later this year, Pakistan has acted maturely. The announcement by Prime Minister Imran Khan to release the Indian pilot as peace gesture has been hailed globally.

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Asif Zardari opposes decision to skip OIC meeting

ISLAMABAD: Pakistan People's Party leader Asif Zardari has opposed  government's decision to skip OIC's  Council of Foreign Minister's meeting.Speaking during the joint sitting of the parliament, he said Islamabad can send Foreign Secretary to the meeting. "It is my opinion that Foreign Minister should attend Council of Foreign Minister's meeting," he said."Not going is not the solution to problem. We should not forget our friends," said the PPP co-chairman.He, however, fully supported the government's decision to release captured Indian pilot.Zardari said it would improve Pakistan's image in the world.He also paid tribute to the Pakistani pilot who downed the Indian aircraft earlier this week. 

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Indian high Commissioner visits Pak Foreign Office ahead of pilot release

ISLAMABAD: Indian acting High Commissioner on Friday arrived at the Foreign Office where he was formally informed about handing over of captured Indian pilot Wing Commander Abhinandan Varthaman.Citing diplomatic sources, Geo News reported that the pilot would be returned to Indian officials around 3:00 pm. The sources said officials of the Indian High Commission would receive the detainee.An Indian group captain who has left for Lahore with travel documents for Abhinandan Varthaman would escort the pilot to his country, the sources saidAbhinandan was shot down over Kashmir on Wednesday, after a dogfight in the skies over the disputed Himalayan region which sent tensions between India and Pakistan to their highest levels in years and alarmed world powers, who issued calls for restraint.Media reports have said Abhinandan could return through the Wagah crossing gate, famed for hosting a daily ceremony by Indian and Pakistani soldiers at sundown.

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Pakistan will not attend OIC meeting over invitation to India , FM tells join sitting of parliament

ISLAMABAD: Foreign Minister Shah Mehmood Qureshi on Friday said he will not attend OIC's Council of Foreign Minister's meeting due to India's participationHe was  briefing the joint sitting of the parliament called in the wake of confrontation with India.The session which began on Friday would continue today. Speaker Assad Qaiser is presiding over the session.The minister  said OIC meeting is taking place today in Abu Dhabi, adding that he had requested the UAE  to review  the decision to invite India to the  OIC. ""I requested UAE to either postpone the meeting, or the body should review its decision to invite India," he said.  "India is neither a member , nor an observer," the minister said.The minister said the UAE, which always stood by Pakistan in difficult times, informed him that the invitation to India was extended before the Pulwama attack took place.The foreign minister also briefed  the house about his contacts with UN Secretary General, Turkish, Russian and diplomats from other countries. 

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Pakistan set to release Indian pilot Abhinandan Varthaman as peace gesture

ISLAMABAD: Pakistan was set to free a captured Indian pilot Friday in a "peace gesture" aimed at lowering temperatures with its rival, after rare aerial raids ignited fears of a dangerous conflict in South Asia.Wing Commander Abhinandan Varthaman would be handed back to , who has become the face of the crisis between Islamabad and New Delhi, will be handed back to Indian officials. In New Delhi the announcement was seen as a diplomatic victory, with Indian leaders welcoming the pilot´s return but announcing they would remain on "heightened" military alert, showing little sign of de-escalating the rivalry.Abhinandan was shot down over Kashmir on Wednesday, after a dogfight in the skies over the disputed Himalayan region which sent tensions between India and Pakistan to their highest levels in years and alarmed world powers, who issued calls for restraint.The latest confrontation between the neighbours, who have fought three wars since independence in 1947, erupted after a suicide bombing in Occupied Kashmir killed 40 Indian troops on February 14.Twelve days later Indian warplanes launched a strike inside undisputed Pakistani territory, claiming to have hit a militant camp.An infuriated Islamabad denied casualties or damage, but a day later captured Abhinandan after shooting down Indian aircraft .Analysts said the pilot could prove to be Islamabad´s trump card, but Prime Minister Imran Khan unexpectedly announced Thursday that he would be released a day later as a "peace gesture", in the first sign of a potential thaw.Khan alluded to the catastrophic consequences of nuclear war and called for talks, even as he warned India should not take the announcement as a sign of weakness.Media reports have said Abhinandan could return through the Wagah crossing gate, famed for hosting a daily ceremony by Indian and Pakistani soldiers at sundown. The pilot´s parents travelled to Amritsar, near Wagah, via Delhi late last night and were applauded by all the passengers on the plane they travelled on, TV footage showed.With the pilot attaining hero status and the hashtag #WelcomeBackAbhi swiftly trending on social media, India´s Prime Minister Narendra Modi called on his citizens to "stand as a wall" in the face of an enemy that "seeks to destabilise India". The last time an Indian pilot was captured by Pakistan, in 1999, the handover was facilitated by the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC), who acted as a "neutral intermediary" after Indian officials refused to receive him before media. Instead, Red Cross officials received the pilot, Flight Lieutenant K. Nachiketa, at the Pakistani foreign office in Islamabad before escorting him to the Indian high commission overnight.He left for India that same day.

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Pakistan to open airspace by 1:00pm Friday

KARACHI: Pakistan’s airspace will be reopened for domestic and international flights from 1:00 pm on Friday (March 1) as the country’s geopolitical tension with India seems to deescalate, the aviation regulator said on Thursday.The official of Pakistan Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) told The News that the airspace would be restored on 1:00 pm on Friday. “All the domestic and international travelers have been notified,” the official said, requesting anonymity. “We have also informed IATA’s (International Air Transport Association) headquarters.”The tension between neighbouring India and Pakistan escalated earlier this week. Pakistan shot down two Indian jets in retaliation to their violation of the country’s international border, triggering air travel imbroglio across the region.The senior official, however, said the final decision to restore airspace depends on the higher authorities despite issuance of notices to airmen, widely known as Notams, by the CAA.“We have the National Command Authority and that has the prerogative to decide,” the official added. “The situation is changing every moment.”Pakistan’s airspace remained closed for all commercial flights on Thursday. A number of passengers were stranded on airports, as the airspace was closed on Wednesday.A travel agent said Emirates and Qatar Airways were among the carriers forced to cancel their flights, many to and from Europe, on February 27 due to the ban. Pakistan International Airlines (PIA), earlier on Friday, announced to resume some flights to UAE and Saudi Arabia as the airline was communicated by the CAA regarding a short window opening. However, the announcement was withdrawn later.Three commercial aircraft, one each of Emirates, Air Arabia and Qatar Airways, that landed before the closure were allowed to leave from the Peshawar airport on Thursday. No further commercial aircraft activity was allowed.A PIA spokesman said the passengers were inquiring about the schedule of the flights, and they had been advised to wait. The airline has not calculated the backlog as yet.“Once the ban is lifted and flight operations resume, we would calculate the backlog, and the passengers would be advised accordingly,” the spokesman added. At least five Indian airports were also closed and scores of flights were canceled.

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Indian military officials left red-faced by media questions, fail to give evidence

NEW DELHI: In bid to clear themselves  after Pakistan's suprise, The joint press briefing of the Indian top military officials  on Thursday turned out to be an apology of the highest order as none of them had any answers to the questions raised by the media persons.Air Vice Marshal RGK Kapoor, Major General Surinder Singh Mahal and Rear Admiral Dalbir Singh Gujral remained clueless and confused throughout the press briefing and failed to  provide satisfactory explanation or evidence to back up India’s claims of the number of casualties and the proof of shooting down an F-16.It is pertinent to note that that Pakistan Air Force had shot down Indian fighter aircraft on Wednesday for violating airspace along Line of Control (LoC) and had taken into custody an Indian pilot, Wing Commander Abhinandan Varthaman.Prime Minister Imran Khan on Thursday announced that Pakistan will release captured IAF pilot, Wing Commander Abhinandan Varthaman, on Friday as a peace gesture.

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US welcomes Pakistan's decision to release Indian Air Force pilot

WASHINGTON: The United States  on Thursday lauded Pakistan's decision to free a captured Indian Air Force pilot whose fighter jet had  been shot down a day earlier by PAF over airspace violation.Lauding  Prime Minister  Imran's  announcement, US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo said that he spent a “good deal of time on the phone” with Pakistan  and India to make sure "there was good information exchanged," encouraging each country to defuse the tensions.Pompeo said:  "I had good conversations (with leaders of Pakistan and India), and I am hopeful that we can take down the tension there,  so that both the countries can begin to have conversations that don’t portend risk of escalation."Earlier in the day, US President Donald Trump had addressed the tensions and  hinted at "some reasonably decent news" regarding Indian and Pakistan and that the tensions were "going to be coming to an end".PM Imran Khan on Thursday announced to release captured Indian pilot Wing Commander Abhinandan Varthaman on Friday as a peace gesture.The pilot was taken into custody by Pakistani forces after his jet was downed on Wednesday.

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Shehbaz Sharif says ?wars not a solution to any dispute?

LAHORE: Opposition leader in the National Assembly and Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) President Shehbaz Sharif has said that wars are not a solution to any dispute.In a Tweet here Thursday, Shehbaz Sharif said “Unless Kashmir issue is resolved as per the UN resolutions and aspirations of the Kashmiris, a durable peace will not be established in South Asia.”PML-N leader added, “Pakistan should continue to extend its moral, political and diplomatic support to the Kashmiris.” Earlier, Shehbaz Thursday said that India has committed a serious crime by violating our airspace, adding with immediate and effective response to the Indian aggression, the Pak Air Force have won the hearts of Pakistanis so that the nation holds it head high.Addressing to the joint session of Parliament here, he said that Modi was a warmonger.He said in past many countries of the world had banned his entry.Shehbaz said tension between India and Pakistan is not a new thing, as already three wars had been fought by them.Shahbaz Sharif paid rich tribute to Squadron Leader Hassan Siddiqui, saying he is an undisputed national hero today.He said his bravery had rekindled the memories of the war of 1965.

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Federal cabinet praises Pakistan Armed Forces for stunning response to Indian aggression

ISLAMABAD: Prime Minister Imran Khan on Thursday chaired meeting of the Federal Cabinet at PM’s Office. The Cabinet praised the armed forces for their calibrated response to the Indian aggression which was designed to give a message that though Pakistan has the capability, it does not intend to harm innocent civilians or cause undue damage. Lauding Prime Minister’s speech, as of a statesman, the cabinet expressed the hope that sanity would prevail on Indian government and leadership so that regional peace is not jeopardized. The Cabinet reaffirmed Pakistan’s firm commitment to peace and stability while fully protecting its sovereignty, preserving its territorial integrity and responding with full force in case of any external aggression. The Foreign Minister briefed the Cabinet about his engagements with Foreign Minister of China, Saudi Arabia, Turkey, Iran and other world leaders on the current situation. The Cabinet appreciated the efforts of the Foreign Minister and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs towards highlighting Pakistan’s principled stance and its efforts to deescalate the situation. The Cabinet ratified the decisions taken by Cabinet Committee on Energy (CCoE) and the Cabinet Committee on Privatization (CCoP) in their meetings. Decisions of Economic Coordination Committee (ECC) during its meeting held on February 19 and Cabinet Committee for Disposal of Legislative Cases (CCLC) in its meeting Feb 26 were also ratified. The Cabinet granted exception to FIA from the provision of PPRA Rules 2004 for the expenditures of JIT, formed by Supreme Court of Pakistan to probe fake/benami accounts, for facilitating its day to day working including hiring of foreign/local experts and for timely completion of the probe. The Cabinet approved signing of Framework Arrangement amounting to $ 500 million with Republic of Korea. Approval for signing of Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between the Committee on Financial Monitoring of the Ministry of Finance of the Republic of Kazakhstan (FIU of Kazakhstan) and Financial Monitoring Unit (FMU) of Government of Pakistan concerning cooperation in the exchange of financial intelligence related to money laundering and terrorist financing was granted. The Cabinet approved appointment of Chairman and Directors of the Board of Directors of National Bank of Pakistan. Zubyr Soomro has been appointed as Chairman National Bank of Pakistan. Memorandum of Cooperation between the Ministry of Justice of the Republic of Uzbekistan and the Ministry of Law & Justice of the Islamic Republic of Pakistan was approved by the Cabinet. The Cabinet also reviewed the progress on disposal of state properties owned by various ministries/departments. It was decided to expedite the process so as to ensure optimum utilization of dead properties and also to raise much needed finances for projects of public welfare. The Prime Minister, during the meeting, also apprised the Cabinet about the decision to permit construction of high rise building in the Federal Capital. The Prime Minister said that emphasis on vertical structure was need of the hour in view of increased population and fast depleting green belts especially in major cities of the country. The Cabinet ratified the same.

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UAE crown prince calls PM Imran,Modi urging both to ease tensions

ABU DHABI: Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi and Deputy Supreme Commander of the UAE Armed Forces Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan on Thursday spoke with the Prime Minister of Pakistan and the Prime Minister of India separately.In the telephonic conversation UAE crown prince ,discussed the ongoing tensions present between the two counties, said a press release.The prime ministers exchanged talks on recent developments. The UAE representative emphasised the importance behind dealing with these  developments, and working towards easing tensions between the two countries,prioritising dialogue and communication between the parties.The Abu Dhabi crown prince stressed the UAE's will to support positive relations between the two neighbouring countries.Sheikh Mohammed underscored the UAE's keenness on ensuring peace and stability in India-Pakistan ties.He expressed his great confidence in the leadership of both country's .

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Turkish President Erdogan lauds PM Imran?s peace efforts

ISLAMABAD: Prime Minister Imran Khan and Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan made a telephonic contact, sources said Thursday.Sources said PM Imran Khan Turkish leader exchanged views on Pak-India tensions.Imran Khan took Erdogan into confidence over his peace efforts with India, sources said.The sources privy to the development added that Turkish President Erdogan lauded PM Imran Khan for his peace efforts and dialogues offer to India.PM Imran Khan on Thursday announced to release captured Indian pilot Wing Commander Abhinandan Varthaman on Friday as a peace gesture.The pilot was taken into custody by Pakistani forces after his jet was downed on Thursday.The decision of Prime Minister Imran Khan has been widely lauded on social media on both sides of the board.

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Wing Commander Abhinandan will be handed over to India through Wagah border: sources

LAHORE: Indian Pilot Wing Commander Abhinandan Varthaman will be handed over to Indian authorities via Wagah border tomorrow (Friday), sources said Thursday.Sources said Abhinandan handed over to officials of Indian High Commission in Pakistan at Wagah border, who will get him cross the border.Prime Minister Imran Khan on Thursday announced to release captured Indian pilot Wing Commander Abhinandan on Friday as a peace gesture.The pilot was taken into custody by Pakistani forces after his jet was downed on Thursday.The decision of Prime Minister Imran Khan has been widely lauded on social media on both sides of the board.

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Actions speak louder than words: Wasim Akram

Wasim Akram Pakistan's former cricket captain applauds Prime Mister Imran Khan's decision to release the arrested Indian pilot .With this action the PM has proved to the world today that Pakistan is a peace loving nation. "Actions speak louder than words" says the former cricket captain in his tweet. Prime Minister Imran Khan's decision  to release the arrested Indian pilot is an act of peace , a gesture of proving that Pakistan as a nation stands for peace,in what is right.

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Stressless Success and Shifting Your Focus with Chalene Johnson

Jemima praises PM Imran?s decision to release Indian pilot Abhinandan

LONDON: Jemima Goldsmith, the former wife of Prime Minister Imran Khan, has applauded the decision of Pakistan to release Indian Pilot Wing Commander Abhinandan Varthaman.Jemima took to Twitter to praise the decision of PM Imran Khan with clap emoji.She was commenting of post shared by the Government of Pakistan’s official Twitter handle after PM Imran Khan announced in the parliament that Islamabad will release Abhinandan on Friday.Prime Minister Imran Khan on Thursday announced to release Indian pilot Abhinandan Varthaman on Friday as a peace gesture.The pilot was captured by Pakistani forces after his jet was downed on Thursday.The prime minister was giving a policy statement at a joint sitting of both houses of parliament convened to discuss situation that has emerged after Indian intrusion of Pakistan's airspace .

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Making Pakistan an atomic power was my duty: Nawaz Sharif

LAHORE: Pakistan Muslim League (PML-N) supremo Nawaz Sharif said on Thursday in a meeting with leaders of the party "making Pakistan a strong atomic power was my duty not courtesy".PML-N leaders Asif Kirmani, Tallal Chaudhry and Amir Muqam met with Nawaz Sharif in Lahore Kot Lakpat jail on Thursday during meeting hours. The former prime minister said making the country an atomic power was not his courtesy, but making Pakistan into a strong nation and giving it atomic power was his duty. "Making motorways was also a part of my duty." he said. Nawaz Sharif applauded the Pakistan army saying they India was given a befitting response."Pakistan has always wanted peace " he said adding that war is never the solution to any problem.The former prime minister at this point expressed his concern over the current cleanliness situation of Lahore saying "Lahore has turned into a garbage dump".Nawaz Sharif mentioned that during the war of 1965 even though he was just a student, he went to Khemkaran to show his patriotism.

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Navjot Singh Sidhu welcomes PM Imran Khan?s decision to release Abhinandan

NEW DELHI: Indian cricketer-turned-politician Navjot Singh Sidhu has welcomed Prime Minister Imran Khan’s decision to release Indian Pilot Wing Commander Abhinandan Varthaman.Sidhu, who was suspended from The Kapil Sharma Show over his remarks on Pulwama attack, took to Twitter saying, “Prime Minister Imran Khan every noble act makes a way for itself... your goodwill gesture is ‘a cup of joy’ for a billion people, a nation rejoices.”Friend of Imran Khan, Sidhu went on to say, “I am overjoyed for his (Abhinandan) parents and loved ones.”Prime Minister Imran Khan on Thursday announced to release Indian pilot Abhinandan Varthaman on Friday as a peace gesture.The pilot was captured by Pakistani forces after his jet was downed on Thursday.The prime minister was giving a policy statement at a joint sitting of both houses of parliament convened to discuss situation that has emerged after Indian intrusion of Pakistan's airspace .

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PM Imran?s decision to release Indian pilot Abhinandan widely lauded

ISLAMABAD: Prime Minister Imran Khan on Thursday announced to release captured Indian pilot Wing Commander Abhinandan Varthaman on Friday as a peace gesture.The pilot was taken into custody by Pakistani forces after his jet was downed on Thursday.The decision of Prime Minister Imran Khan has been widely lauded on social media on both sides of the board.

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Pakistan Army troops at high alert along LoC: DG ISPR updates nation

Rawalpindi: Military spokesperson Major General Asif Ghafoor has said that due to prevailing environment Pakistan Army troops are at high alert along Line of Control with all required safeguards along Eastern Border in place to thwart any Indian aggression.Updating the nation on the situation, Director General Inter Services Public Relations in a statement said “Pakistan Air Force and Pakistan Navy also continue to stay fully alert.”During last 48 hours, Indian troops resorted to increased cease fire violations in KOTLI, Khuiratta and Tatta Pani Sectors along LOC, the statement said and added “Pakistan Army troops responding effectively.”The statement further says Indian deliberate firing on civilians resulted into shahadat of four citizens and two injured.Pakistan Armed Forces are in a state of readiness for all eventualities.The military’s media wing also advised the nation, “The public to stay mindful about rumour mills and stay responsible in use of social media.”

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PM Imran says Pakistan to release Indian pilot tomorrow as peace gesture

ISLAMABAD: Prime Minister Imran Khan on Thursday announced to release Indian pilot Abhinandan Varthaman on Friday as a peace gesture.The pilot was captured by Pakistani forces after his jet  was downed  on Thursday.The prime minister was giving a policy statement  at a joint sitting of  both houses of parliament  convened to discuss  situation that has emerged after Indian intrusion of Pakistan's airspace .The session is being attended by all the political parties in the   Senate and the National Assembly.Policy StatementHe paid  tribute to the national and political parties for being united in the prevailing situation . He said even before being sworn in as prime minister in July, he had said that Pakistan would take two steps forward if India  takes one step towards peace.The reason behind his statement, he said, was poverty in both Pakistan and India. He said on July 26 gave statement and followed  it by letter  to Prime Minister Narendra Modi but didn't receive  a encouraging response.He said Pakistan was expecting  an incident ahead of  Indian election seeing jingoistic rehtoric.Khan once again raised the question what his country was supposed to gain from Pulwama attack which India blamed on Pakistan."India started blaming Pakistan within half an hour after Pulwama attack," he said."After Indian aircraft violated airspace, Pakistan  waited to ascertain the damages  instead of reacting immediately", he saidKhan  said Pakistan showed responsibility  despite knowing people's sentiment after India violated Pakistan's airspace.The prime minister acted against India and made sure there was no collateral damage."We took action just to show our capability".He said on Wednesday he he tried to contact his Indian counterpart after the incident. KashmirHe said Indian people should think what made a youngster to become a suicide bomber in Kashmir, referring to a suicide attack in Pulwama that killed over 40 Indian troops. "There is a need for retrospection in India," he said. "There is need for debate in India on Kashmir".He said India seemed to  blame the Pulwama attack on Islamic radicalization which was not true.The Pakistani leader said India should analyze  the phenomenon because  it had nothing to do with Islamic radicalization.  He said  the suicide attacks are results of  desperation and humiliation, citing  example form  Sri Lanka where  Tamil Tigers carried out several suicide bombings . The prime minister said  if India takes action against Pakistan after any future incident in Kashmir, Islamabad will have no option but to retaliate ."Tension neither  benefits Pakistan nor India," he said.He said Pakistan Army was  ready to respond on Thursday expecting a missile attack from India.He said Pakistan and India should not even think of a war with kinds of weapons they  have in their possession. 

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Say no to war: Journalists from India, Pakistan call for peace

The revered journalist community from both  India and Pakistan have come together for a mutual call for peace amid  rapid escalation of tensions between the two countries. On Thursday, a joint statement  by journalists on both the sides of the border was released, in which establishment of durable peace is  stressed upon."We request our governments to urgently scale down these tensions. The rapid developments over the last two days are scary. If the temperature is not immediately brought down things could go out of hand," the statement says.  "There are no issues which cannot be resolved through dialogue. We appreciate Pakistan PM Imran Khan's offer of dialogue and request the Indian government to take it up as soon as possible," it states.  The statement further goes on to add, "We also appeal to Pakistan to treat the captured Wing Commander Abhinandan Varthaman with the dignity he deserves and also repatriate him as per the Geneva Convention." "We stress that the costs of war are long term and take decades to recover from. Neither of our countries can afford them. We believe war cannot be a solution. We must keep trying to make our region a peaceful one for future generations." Journalists from India underscoring the message  of peace with Pakistan include   the likes of Jatin Desai, Jyoti Punwani, Gurbir Singh, Kalpana Sharma, Geeta Seshu, Smruti Koppikar, Priyanka Borpujari, Divya Rajgopal, Kajal Iyer, Anjali Mathur, Padma Prakash, Charumathi Sankaran, Sandhya Srinivasan, Sharmila Joshi, Ammu Joseph, Freny Maneksha, Norma Godinho, Rachita Prasad, Neeta Kolhatkar, Tanya Thomas, Ketan Tanna, Joel Rebello, Kalpana Pathak, Gayatri Shah, Carol Andrade, Jochelle Mendonca, Rupa Chinai, Hepzi Anthony, Samrat Chakrabarti,  Ritesh Uttamchandani,  Niloufer Venkatraman ,Rining Lyngdoh, Raymond Kharmujai, Megha Moorthy, Amritha Pillay, Megha Mandavia, Rica Roy,  Rosamma Thomas Pune, Dhamini Ratnam,  Sukhwant Basra, Chandigarh and Satyen K. Bordoloi. On the other hand, the renowned Pakistani journalists Raja Kamran, Aamir Latif, Fazil Jamili, Iqra Mujahid Baig, Rizwan Bhatti, Shoaib Jatt, Imtiaz Faran, Saeed Sarbazi, Arif Baloch, Siraj Ahmed, Ashraf Bhatti, Tahir Hasan Khan, Naseer Ahmed, Liaquat Mughal, Arbab Chandio, Khurshid Abbasi, Irshad Khokhar, Shazia Hasan, Akhtar Baloch, Waqas Ahmad Baig, Zafar Ahmed Khan, Abbas Ali Siddiqui, Saba Sultan, Mudasir Nazir, Masoom Ali, Asma Riaz, Sajid Malik and Kifayat Ali have also appealed for sustainable formation of harmony. 

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Modi's first statement after Pakistan's surprise hit

NEW DELHI: Prime Minister Narendra Modi asked Indians Thursday to "stand as a wall" with anger boiling over Pakistan’s capture of a pilot as a crisis escalates between the nuclear-armed rivals.In his first remarks since Pakistan shot down two Indian fighter jets, the prime minister urged his countrymen to unite "as the enemy seeks to destabilise India"."In the face of their objective, every Indian should stand as a wall, as a rock," Modi said."The entire country is one today and standing with our soldiers. The world is looking at our collective will and we have faith in our forces´ capacity."India will live as one. India will work as one. India will grow as one. India will fight as one. India will win as one."Modi did not mention Pakistan by name during the address to party workers.

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Qureshi: Pakistan ready to consider returning Indian pilot if it leads to de-escalation

ISLAMABAD: In an unprecedented call for peace, Pakistan said it is ready to hand over captured Indian Air Force pilot, Wing Commander Abhinandan, to India. Reiterating the message of peace, Foreign Minister Shah Mahmood Qureshi said on Thursday:"If returning Wing Commander Abhinandan brings peace, we are definitely ready for it."FM Qureshi also said  Prime Minister Imran Khan is ready to hold talks with India. However, is Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi ready, he questioned. Regarding Indian Foreign Minister Sushma Swaraj attending the meeting of Organization of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) next month, Qureshi said, "India is neither a member of OIC nor an observer."Qureshi stressed, "I will not hesitate to meet but OIC is not the forum for talks with Swaraj."The foreign minister added that war is not a solution. "After destruction, you also have to sit down for talks. Civilised dialogue is the only way forward.”“India’s policy is not beneficial anymore. We are losing Kahsmiris,” he added.The foreign minister continued, “India cannot solve the Kashmir issue through strength. We are ready to talk on the issues of Kashmir and terrorism with India. They can come and sit down and we will have a dialogue."On Wednesday, Indian Air Force Wing Commander Abhinandan Varthaman  was taken in custody as two fighter jets from India were shot down by Pakistan after they violated the Line of Control (LoC).

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Karachi, Quetta and other cities hold rallies against Indian hostility

Multiple cities around the country staged demonstrations against India’s unprovoked aggression in the country and voiced their support for the Pakistan armed forces on Thursday.According to reports, students of Punjab University took to streets in opposition with the Indian aggression exhibited on Tuesday, chanting slogans against the neighboring country. In Karachi, students and faculty members of Federal Urdu University also demonstrated against the aggression while stating to stand by the armed forces in the country. Moreover, Quetta also saw numerous protests unfolding around the city including a march that started from Liaqat Bazaar and ended at the Press Club which comprised of a hefty crowd from the city’s trading circles as well as the civil society.On the other hand, Mingora, Mohmand, Swat, Rahim Yar Khan, Shabqadar and Nawabshah also held numerous rallies in the wake of the events that unfolded this week.

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IAF Pilot Abhinandan top search item on Google in India

KARACHI: Pakistan captured an Indian pilot after he ejected from the jet shot down by PAF on Wednesday amid rising tensions between the two nations despite Islamabad’s repeated calls for dialogue.Since his arrest in Pakistan, Wing Commander Abhinandan Varthaman has been a hot topic on internet and media and not only Indians, Pakistanis are also very keen to know more about the pilot.A study on Google Search shows that topics related to Pakistan-India tensions are trending across the border.Top five queries are: abhinandan pilot, abhinandan, indian pilot abinandhan, indian pilot and pilot abinandhan family.Pakistan released a video of the IAF pilot drinking tea and praising the professionalism of the army for treating him well and rescuing him from an angry mob.

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Trump says US trying to help Pakistan, India defuse tensions

Hanoi:  President Donald Trump on Thursday said  US was trying to help Pakistan and India  defuse the situation, after days of escalating confrontation between the two nuclear armed nations  seemed to  bring them on the brink  of war.Addressing a press conference, the US president said : "We have reasonably  attractive news from India and Pakistan. We have been involved in trying to help them stop. And we have some reasonably  decent news.He said:  I think hopefully that's going to an end. That has been going on for a long time, decades and decades. There is a lot of dislike, unfortunately. So we have been in the middle trying to help them both out so we can gent some organization and some peace. And i think probably that  is going to be happening  .".on Wednesday, Secretary of State Mike Pompeo, in a statement after calls with his two counterparts, urged restraint from both sides as Pakistan  shot down Indian warplane.

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Bilawal asks India to reciprocate PM Imran's call for dialogue 'before it's too late'

Indian must reciprocate Pakistan Prime Minister's call for dialouge, Pakistan People Party (PPP) leader Bilawal Bhutto Zardari said amid rising tensions between the two nuclear armed nations."Time to de-escalate before it's too late," Bilawal wrote on Twitter a day after Pakistan shot down to Indian warplanes in a escalating confrontation."It is the youth of the subcontinent who will pay in blood and coin for generations to come for the shortsighted decisions of a few today," he said.Prime Minister Imran Khan on Wednesday asked India to come to the negotiating table as war won't resolve issues between the two countries. 

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Pakistan flight operations to remain suspended till 12:00 am

ISLAMABAD: Flight operations across Pakistan will remain suspended till 12:00 am, said Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) on Thursday, amid soaring tensions between the nuclear-armed rivals stoked fears of a full-blown conflict. All the flights from Islamabad, Lahore, Karachi, Peshawar, Quetta, Multan, Faisalabad have been cancelled, the CAA said in a statement.The CAA closed airspace on Wednesday after Pakistan shot down two Indian Air Force planes in its airspace over Azad Kashmir. India too had shut down operations at various airports.The air traffic disruption was affecting routes passing through the region that are popular with Western holidaymakers, with an industry body saying that a huge number of flights to Southeast Asia may have to be diverted.Thousands of holidaymakers were stranded in Bangkok on Thursday after Thai Airways cancelled all flights over Pakistan.Twenty-seven flights, the majority to and from European routes, have been cancelled, the Thai flag carrier said, with three passenger jets forced to return to Bangkok´s Suvarnabhumi airport on Thursday.Thai Airways said nearly 5,000 passengers had been caught up in the cancellations."There are 4,000 from European flights and 700 to 800 from flights to Pakistan," a Thai Airways spokesperson said."We are waiting for permission to fly over other countries," she said, explaining Iran had rejected a request to fly over its airspace."Now we are contacting China," she added.

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Peshawar High Court judge attacked, left wounded

PESHAWAR: Peshawar High Court judge Justice Mohammad Ayub was left wounded after he was shot by a group of unknown men Thursday morning. According to Superintendent of police (SP) Cantt Qaseem Riaz, the incident occurred in Hayatabad's Phase 5 area, when a unknown assailants shot at the car of Justice Ayub. Justice Mohammad Ayub Khan was appointed as the judge of Peshawar High Court in 2017. Before his elevation, he served as judge of accountability court in Peshawar. He also rendered services as district and sessions judge and remained posted at various stations. Justice Ayub also served as registrar of the Punjab Healthcare Commission (PHC).

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The last time Pakistan captured an Indian pilot

In a brazen response to Indian aggression in light of escalating tensions, Pakistan on Wednesday shot down two Indian Air Force fighter jets that violated the Line of Control (LoC) and the country's airspace, taking Indian pilot Wing Commander Abhinandan Varthaman in custody.The last time Pakistan captured an IAF officer was on May 27, 1999. Flight lieutenant  Kambampati Nachiketa, 26 years old at the time, was conducting airstrikes against Pakistan during the Kargil War on his MiG 27 fighter aircraft when Pakistan's valiant air force captured him after his aircraft caught fire causing him to eject the plane. Nachiketa was found in breach of the Geneva Convention. In an unprecedented move to initiate and establish peace, Pakistan then handed Nachiketa o India safely after he spent eight days in Pakistan's custody, under the then Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif's regime. During his return, Nachiketa was driven across the India-Pakistan border by an air attaché. Indian Prime Minister Atal Bihari Bajpaye and then air chief, Air Chief Marshal Anil Tipnis also spoke to him before he left Islamabad.

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Tourists stranded as Thai Airways cancels flights over Pakistan

Bangkok: Thousands of holidaymakers were stranded in Bangkok on Thursday after Thai Airways cancelled all flights over Pakistan after Islamabad suddenly closed its airspace in response to soaring tensions with India.Twenty-seven flights, the majority to and from European routes, have been cancelled, the Thai flag carrier said, with three passenger jets forced to return to Bangkok’s Suvarnabhumi airport on Thursday.The cancellations follow a snowballing crisis between nuclear armed neighbours Pakistan and India, which has raised fears of an all-out war.Pakistan shot down two Indian Air Force planes in its airspace, although it later clarified only one Indian pilot had been captured.Thai Airways said nearly 5,000 passengers had been caught up in the cancellations."There are 4,000 from European flights and 700 to 800 from flights to Pakistan," a Thai Airways spokesperson said."We are waiting for permission to fly over other countries," she said, explaining Iran had rejected a request to fly over its airspace."Now we are contacting China," she added.The carrier said stranded passengers were put up in hotels at its expense.But frustration mounted Thursday at Bangkok’s main airport at the sudden delays."We have waited here for 11 or 12 hours already," Gerda Heinzel 55, a German tourist flying back to Munich after a holiday in Phuket."We have not been given anything to eat, anywhere to stay. There are no German-speaking staff to help us."Flights to London, Paris, Brussels, Milan and Munich were all cancelled on Thursday, while 10 incoming flights from Europe were also scratched.The cancellations are a blow to Thai Airways during one of the country’s most popular travel periods.

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Samjhota Express suspended

LAHORE: Samjhota Express could not leave for India Thursday (today)  due to suspension of their operation by Pakistan authorities in wake of  soaring tensions between two  countries.Railways official was reported to have  said that passengers went back to their towns after the Atari bound train was not allowed to leave Lahore Railways Station. The  train was due to leave for India from Lahore at 08:00am  today (Thursday).According to Additional General Manager  Railways Zubair Shafi the decision to suspend Samjhota Expres was taken  in wake of prevailing situation  to avert any untoward incident.

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Meet squadron leader Hasan Siddiqui who shot down Indian jets

RAWALPINDI: Soon after Pakistan's surprise to India, video of Pak  squadron leader Hassan Siddiqui making rounds  on the  internet  with  great applause for his velour and achievement as he reportedly  shot down two Indian fighter jets violating airspace along LOC.In response to Indian aggression, Pakistan Air Force  on Wednesday unnerved the enemy force by shooting down their two fighter jets in the broad day light. One of the aircraft fell inside AJ&K while other fell inside IOK. One Indian pilot was also taken into custody by troops.The Young Pakistani  Squadron Leader Hassan Siddiqui  successfully achieved the target, recalling the memory of  7 September 1965 when Air Commodore Muhammad Mahmood Alam SJ downed nine Indian Air Force aircraft during the Indo-Pakistani War of 1965, including five Hawker Hunter aircraft on one sortie. Minister of State for Climate Change Zartaj Gul Wazir, among others, shared a video of Pakistan's  great hero   who was warmly welcomed by his  team after executing his job that made every Pakistani proud.

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Pulwama attack: India hands over dossier to Pakistan

NEW DELHI: India on Wednesday handed over dossier to Pakistan with  "details" regarding Pulwama attack. The foreign office said that  the government will give statement after reviewing it.The dossier -which was reportedly handed over to the Acting High Commissioner of Pakistan- has details about Pulwama attack and its alleged executors.After handing over the dossier, New Delhi asked Islamabad to take  necessary steps in this regard. The dossier was handed over to Pakistan after  Prime Minister Imran Khan's  speech in which he  offered Indian government to hold dialogue for peace and stability in the region.  Pakistan’s Foreign Office (FO) also confirmed that a dossier has been handed over to the acting high commissioner, adding that  a statement would be given after Pakistan reviews it.Earlier Pakistan shot down two Indian Air Force planes in its airspace in Kashmir and captured an Indian pilot.

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Sindh govt sets up control room to deal with emergency

KARACHI: In view of prevailing situation, the government of Sindh on Wednesday  set up the provincial control room in accordance with "the provision of War Book", a notification read.According to the notification, The Control Room will have representation and support from Provincial Disaster Management Authority (PIMA) Sindh and Directorate of Civil Defence."The Control Room has been operationalized for the purpose of preparedness, monitoring, reporting, taking preventive measures and issuing real-time instructions regarding any untoward emergency situation,"it added.The development comes subsequent to a video conference with "the Federal Government at the office of the Chief Secretary Sindh" that took place earlier the same day.  Saifullah Abro the additional secretary for internal security is the in-charge of  The Control Room.

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030: Fashion, style, fit mom life with Bethann Wagner

In today’s podcast episode, I’m chatting with Bethann Wagner from the amazing lifestyle blog, Bethanimal Print. 

Here’s what we talk about:

– How her work with creators and influencers lead her to create Bethanimal Print

– What helped her create her personal style

– Wardrobe staples every woman should have

– Her personal spending freeze and would she do it again

– Changes she’d made in her fitness routine

+ so much more!

Here’s a little bit about Bethann:

In a past life, I worked in the tech industry, the fitness industry and the fashion industry. Now I blend them all together blogging and vlogging about style, beauty, fitness and wellness on bethanimalprint.com.

I believe in sharing life’s authentic moments with you, as I find there needs to be more of that in this social media driven world. When I’m not chasing kids around or hustling through the influencer grind, I’m looking for ways to be more eco-friendly. I’ve recently challenged myself to give up shopping for a whole year.  It’s given me more more time for things I really love, like weightlifting, eating tacos (the perfect food), hanging out with my crazy family or sipping on a big ‘ole glass of local red wine.

Resources from this episode:

Everlane cashmere

Splendid everyday tees

Find Bethann on her blog or Instagram!

Thank you so much for listening and for all of your support with the podcast! Please leave a rating or review if you enjoyed this episode. If you leave a rating, head to this page and you’ll get a little “thank you” gift from me to you.

You can listen and subscribe to the podcast on iTunes, Stitcher, and Google Play.

The post 030: Fashion, style, fit mom life with Bethann Wagner appeared first on The Fitnessista.

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Malala asks PM Imran, Modi to show true leadership, settle conflict through dialogue

LONDON: Nobel Peace Prize winner, Malala Yousafzai has said that as a Nobel Laureate, UN Messenger of Peace, citizen of Pakistan and a student, she is alarmed by the escalation of tensions between Pakistan and India and is concerned for people living on both sides of the border.“I ask Prime Minister Imran Khan and Indian PM Narendra Modi to show true leadership in this difficult time; to sit down, shake hands and settle the current conflict and long-standing issue of Kashmir through dialogue,” Malala said in a post on Twitter.With a hashtag of #SayNoToWar, Malala says, “Everyone aware of the horrors of war would agree that retaliation and revenge is never the right response—once started, it rarely ends.”“Millions of people are suffering today because of existing wars –we don’t need another. Our world cannot even care for all the people currently in peril,” she added.She also asked the international community to support talks between India and Pakistan and to help prevent loss of lives and homes.Citizens of both countries know that the true enemies are terrorism, poverty, illiteracy and health crises – not each other.

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Parliamentary leaders briefed on Pakistan's response to Indian aggression at in-camera session

ISLAMABAD : Leaders of parliamentary parties in the National Assembly (NA) were given an in-camera briefing at the Parliament House on Wednesday over the escalating Pakistan-India tension in the wake of violation of Line of Control (LoC) by Indian Air Force.Foreign Minister Shah Mehmood Qureshi briefed the parliamentarians of the strategy of government while Maj Gen Asif Ghafoor, the Director General (DG) of Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR) apprised them of the input of military.The briefing, held at the Parliament House in Islamabad, also had Chief of Army Staff (COAS) General Qamar Javed Bajwa in presence.Opposition Leader in National Assembly Shehbaz Sharif and Pakistan Peoples Party co-chairman Asif Ali Zardari attended the session along with party delegations.Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) delegation included Shahid Khaqan Abbasi, Khawaja Asif, Ahsan Iqbal, Raja Zafarul Haq, Mushahidullah Khan, Ayaz Sadiq, Rana Sanaullah and Marriyum Aurangzeb.Sources said the PPP delegates included Khursheed Shah, Raja Pervez Ashraf, Naveed Qamar, Sherry Rehman, Saleem Mandviwala and Raza Rabbani."The briefing went well," the DG ISPR said, in response to a question by a journalist after the session concluded.

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Shoaib Akhtar salutes PAF, Pakistan Army for appropriate response to Indian aggression

ISLAMABAD: Former Pakistani Test cricketer Shoaib Akhtar has saluted Pakistan Air Force and Pakistan Army for their appropriate response to Indian aggression.Shoaib took to Twitter saying, “The response to aggression is retaliation. A strong one as given by our brave soldiers. Salute to PAF and Pakistan Army.”The former cricketer added “I hope we reach an amicable solution.”Sharing his photo with brave soldiers of Pakistan Army, Shoaib Akhtar said, “As our PM Imran Khan and Military Spokesperson have repeatedly said in past few days that we don’t want war and have suggested several times to sit and talk. But if our sovereignty is challenged, an appropriate response was due.”In a befitting response to Indian aggression, two Indian Air Force fighter jets were shot down by Pakistan for violating airspace on Wednesday, video of which has surfaced online.

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Pakistan is not your enemy, Wasim Akram tells India

ISLAMABAD: Former skipper Wasim Akram has said told India that Pakistan is not your enemy.Wasim Akram took to Twitter saying, “With my heavy heart I appeal to yours, India, Pakistan is not your enemy, Your enemy is our enemy!”He went on to say, “How much more blood needs to be spilled before we realise we are both fighting the same battle.”Wasim Akram with hashtag #TogetherWeWin #NoToWar added, “We need brothers in arm if we want to beat this war on terror.”  

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Turkey will stand by Pakistan in pace of Indian aggression: Turkish FM

ISLAMABAD: Foreign Minister Shah Mehmood Qureshi on Wednesday said that Turkey has announced to stand with Pakistan and its people in the pace of Indian aggression. FM Qureshi said the Turkish Foreign Minister Mevlut Cavusoglu, in his telephonic conversation today assured him that Turkey also declared to oppose if the Indian external affairs minister was given an opportunity to speak at the upcoming Organisation of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) meeting in Abu Dhabi.Qureshi said that the UN secretary general had also telephoned him and while expressing concern over the current situation in Pakistan, assured to play his role in whatever way and manner he could.

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Pakistan partially restores its airspace

KARACHI: Pakistan has partially restored its airspace, starting with Jinnah International Airport of Karachi.Flight WY324 KHI MCT and EK601 KHI DXB were departed from Jinnah International Airport of Karachi.North East and North Western airspace will remain closed until further notice.This was announced hours after numerous flights were cancelled or diverted Wednesday after Pakistan closed its airspace and India shut airports, as soaring tensions between two neighbours stoked fears of a full-blown conflict.The closures came after Pakistan said it had shot down two Indian Air Force planes in its airspace.The air traffic disruption was affecting routes passing through the region that are popular with Western holidaymakers, with an industry body saying that a huge number of flights to Southeast Asia may have to be diverted.Pakistan International Airlines, the country’s flag carrier, warned that "flights may be affected due to closure of Pakistan commercial air space".

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Pakistan wants peace : Imran Ismail

The Governor of Sindh Imran Ismail on Wednesday said in his tweet that he is proud of the defence system of Pakistan and in the way they responded in showing India that our forces are always ready to respond to any violation at LOC.He said Pakistan wants peace as the Prime Minister Imran Khan in his address emphasised adding that the PM has once again offered India peace even after today's turn of events. Imran Ismail said he hopes India will respond to the offer of peace given by the Prime Minister.

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Strong rain bearing system likely to approach Balochistan,Sindh:PMD

ISLAMABAD :Pakistan Meteorological Department (PMD) has warned of a strong rain bearing system  expected to approach Balochistan on Thursday night and  grip southern parts of the country on Friday .According to PMD a heavy rain-thunderstorm accompanied by a windstorm (gusting 80-120 km/h) is expected in parts of Balochistan, Sindh ( including Karachi) and Southern Punjab (Dera Ghazi Khan, Multan and Bahawalpur division) from Friday night to Saturday which could create an untoward situation.All concerned authorities and general public have been urged by PMD to take precautionary measures during this period.

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Shahid Afridi says he is proud of Pakistan Armed Forces

ISLAMABAD: Former skipper Shahid Khan Afridi has lauded Pakistan Armed Forces for treating Indian Wing Commander Abhinandan as per norms of military ethics, saying ‘this is how we treat our enemies even.’Afridi took to Twitter sharing the video of Abhinandan in which he lauded the professionalism of Pakistan Army, saying, “Proud of Pakistan Armed Forces. This is how we treat our enemies even.”Afridi added “The War Hysteria started by India must end now. We are a peace loving nation and the only solution to this is joint dialogue as suggested in speech by our Prime Minister Imran Khan.”Indian pilot Wing Commander Abhinandan Varthaman, who was taken into custody by Pakistani forces, has lauded the professionalism of Pakistan Army and termed it 'impressive'.In a video, circulating on social media, Abhinandan is holding a cup of tea thanked Pakistan Army Captain and his team for rescuing him from mob.He went on say “I will not change my stance if I go back to my country India.”“This is what I would expect from my Army,” he said lauding the professionalism and attitude of Pakistan Army. To a question, Abhinandan said, “I am from down south India and married person.”He also said the tea he was served was so tasty.Earlier, a video was released by Pakistan Army that shows the identity and related details of the captured Indian pilot."My name is Wing Commander Abhinandan and my service number is 27981," the pilot says in a video statement."I am a flying pilot and my religion is Hindu," he continues. Pakistan Air Force on Wednesday struck down two Indian fighter jets intruding Pakistani airspace, in a valiant and befitting response to Indian aggression.

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Shahif Afridi says he is proud of Pakistan Armed Forces

ISLAMABAD: Former skipper Shahid Khan Afridi has lauded Pakistan Armed Forces for treating Indian Wing Commander Abhinandan as per norms of military ethics, saying ‘this is how we treat our enemies even.’Afridi took to Twitter sharing the video of Abhinandan in which he lauded the professionalism of Pakistan Army, saying, “Proud of Pakistan Armed Forces. This is how we treat our enemies even.”Afridi added “The War Hysteria started by India must end now. We are a peace loving nation and the only solution to this is joint dialogue as suggested in speech by our Prime Minister Imran Khan.”Indian pilot Wing Commander Abhinandan Varthaman, who was taken into custody by Pakistani forces, has lauded the professionalism of Pakistan Army and termed it 'impressive'.In a video, circulating on social media, Abhinandan is holding a cup of tea thanked Pakistan Army Captain and his team for rescuing him from mob.He went on say “I will not change my stance if I go back to my country India.”“This is what I would expect from my Army,” he said lauding the professionalism and attitude of Pakistan Army. To a question, Abhinandan said, “I am from down south India and married person.”He also said the tea he was served was so tasty.Earlier, a video was released by Pakistan Army that shows the identity and related details of the captured Indian pilot."My name is Wing Commander Abhinandan and my service number is 27981," the pilot says in a video statement."I am a flying pilot and my religion is Hindu," he continues. Pakistan Air Force on Wednesday struck down two Indian fighter jets intruding Pakistani airspace, in a valiant and befitting response to Indian aggression.

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Only Wing Commander Abhinandan in Pakistan Army?s custody: DG ISPR

RAWALPINDI: Military spokesperson Major General Asif Ghafoor has confirmed that there is only one Indian pilot under Pakistan Army’s custody.In a Tweet, Director General Inter Services Public Relations, the media wing of the military, said, “Indian pilot Wing Commander Abhinandan is being treated as per norms of military ethics.”Earlier, in a video, Indian Pilot Abhinandan lauded Pakistan Army’s professionalism and attitude for treating him well.Pakistan Air Force on Wednesday struck down two Indian fighter jets intruding Pakistani airspace, in a valiant and befitting response to Indian aggression.

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Wing Commander Abhinandan lauds Pakistan Army?s professionalism

RAWALPINDI: Indian pilot Wing Commander Abhinandan Varthaman, who was taken into custody by Pakistani forces, has lauded the professionalism of Pakistan Army.In a video, circulating on social media, Abhinandan is holding a cup of tea thanked Pakistan Army Captain and his team for protecting him from mob.Pakistan Air Force on Wednesday struck down two Indian fighter jets intruding Pakistani airspace, in a valiant and befitting response to Indian aggression. The two Indian pilots remain under arrest by Pakistan.

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Our hospitals aren’t good enough for Nawaz Sharif – whose fault is that?

In an important advancement on Monday, the Islamabad High Court (IHC) rejected the appeal of former prime minister Nawaz Sharif who was seeking suspension of his sentence due to his medical condition. A two-member bench of IHC involving Justice Amir Farooq and Justice Mohsin Akhtar Kiyani read the short request of the court decision saying that the appeal was dismissed because it holds no credible grounds. It further informed that Nawaz is being given the best medical treatment and the court does not feel that his case is that of unusual circumstance. The court in its nine-page decision additionally expressed that ...

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Pakistan summons Indian envoy, condemns Feb 26 ceasefire violations along LoC

ISLAMABAD: Pakistan on Wednesday summoned Indian Acting High Commissioner Gaurav Ahluwalia and condemned the unprovoked ceasefire violations by the Indian occupation forces along the Line of Control on February 26, in Nikial and Khuiratta sectors which resulted in the martyrdom of four innocent civilians and injuries to six others.The civilians martyred included Mottia Bibi, Ms Zarina, Gulfaraz and Ms Shehnaz.According to a Foreign Office statement, Director General (SA & SAARC) Dr Mohammad asked the Indian envoy that India should respect the 2003 Ceasefire arrangement, investigate the incidents of violations, instruct its forces to respect the ceasefire in letter and spirit, and maintain peace on the LoC and the Working Boundary (WB).The Director General (SA & SAARC) demanded that the Indian side should permit UNMOGIP (United Nations Military Observers Group in India and Pakistan) to play its mandated role as per the UN Security Council resolutions. According to the statement, the Indian forces along the LoC and the WB were continuously targeting civilian populated areas with heavy weapons.This unprecedented escalation in ceasefire violations by India was continuing from the year 2017 when the Indian forces committed 1970 violations, it added.“The deliberate targeting of civilian populated areas is indeed deplorable and contrary to human dignity, international human rights and humanitarian laws.The ceasefire violations by India are a threat to regional peace and security and may lead to a strategic miscalculation”, the statement maintained.

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Who is Wing Commander Abhinandan Varthaman?

After Indian Pilot Wing Commander Abhinandan Varthaman was taken into custody by Pakistani forces on Wednesday an old footage of the fighter pilot from 2011 has started making rounds on social media.The footage shared is from a documentary where the said pilot can be seen getting introduced along with his fellow fighter pilots in a an Indian Air Force documentary  released on  May 16, 2011. According to reports, the detained Indian pilot is said to be the son of a retired Air Marshall and was flying an MiG 21 Bison jet on Wednesday that was shot down by Pakistan Air Force (PAF) with the pilot taken into custody.Soon after the attack, a footage of the captive being questioned was also released where he can be heard saying: “My name is Wing Commander Abhinandan and my service number is 27981.” "I am a flying pilot and my religion is Hindu [sic]," he adds further. "May I request for a little information, sir? Am I with the Pakistani army?" he questioned while refusing to answer any additional probes. 

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