Nawaz Sharif says talks with Taliban have started

Prime Minister, Nawaz Sharif, Thursday said talks with the Taliban militants have started to stop killing of more people and security officials.

Mr Sharif offered comments in his meeting with British Deputy Prime Minister Nick Clegg in London, the PM office in Islamabad said.

“The Prime Minister informed that the dialogue with the Taliban has started,” the statement from the PM office said.

Mr Sharif said that he hoped and prayed the dialogue works within the Constitutional framework of Pakistan.

The statement quoted the Prime Minister as saying that his government could not wait and see the innocent people and members of law enforcement agencies being killed in the streets of Pakistan.

The government opted for the talks weeks after a parliamentary conference called upon the government to initiate talks with the Taliban to find out a political solution to the problem of terrorism and violent extremism.

Opposition parties had been critical at the government for delay in the Taliban talks in view of series of deadly attacks over the past two months that had killed nearly 200 people only in the northwestern city of Peshawar.

Nawaz Sharif said the government was making its counter-terrorism forces and intelligence agencies fully capable to root out extremism and terrorism from Pakistan.

“The enhancement of the capacity of the counter-terrorism forces was a part of different options to deal with extremism and terrorism,” he elaborated.

The Prime Minister also briefed Mr Clegg on the recently promulgated Protection of Pakistan Ordinance and said that it was specifically prepared to deal with those terrorists who were waging war against the people and the state of Pakistan.

On Pakistan-India relations, the Prime Minister said that he had made sincere efforts to resolve all outstanding issues with India. “We have made India bashing a non-issue in Pakistan but unfortunately Indian politicians are still engaged in unwarranted Pakistan bashing”, he said.

Deputy Prime Minister Mr Clegg told Prime Minister Sharif that he and his government was full of admiration for his pro-active approach of reaching out to India before and after elections.

He assured that the UK would fully support Pakistan’s case for GSP Plus in the EU market. Mr Clegg also appreciated recently introduced economic reforms agenda by the Pakistan government.

Pakistan condemns fresh US drone strike that killed three people

Pakistan on Thursday strongly condemned a latest U.S. drone strike in the country’s North Waziristan tribal region which killed at least three people.

The spy aircraft, in a pre-dawn attack, fired missiles in Miranshah, the center of North Waziristan, security officials and residents said.

“The Government of Pakistan strongly condemns the US drone strike that took place in Miranshah, North Waziristan in early hours of 31 October. These strikes are a violation of Pakistan’s sovereignty and territorial integrity,” the Foreign Ministry said.

“There is an across the board consensus in Pakistan that these drone strikes must end,” a Foreign Ministry statement said hours after the strike.

It said the Government of Pakistan has consistently maintained that drone strikes are counter-productive, entail loss of innocent civilian lives and have human rights and humanitarian implications.

“Such strikes also set dangerous precedents in the inter-state relations,” the Foreign Ministry warned.

It went on to say that these drone strikes have a negative impact on the mutual desire of both countries to forge a cordial and cooperative relationship and to ensure peace and stability in the region.

The Thursday attack was the first strike in almost a month with the last drone attack being reported on September 30.

The attack comes almost a week after a rights groups Amnesty International and the Human Rights Watch both released their reports on drone strikes and followed a report by UN Special Rapproteur on the same topic.

The strike occurred juts days after Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif raised the issue of drone attacks with President Barrack Obama at the White House.

Pakistan regularly condemns the attacks as a violation of sovereignty and are counter productive.

On Wednesday, the Pakistani Senate was told by the interior ministry in a written statement that only 67 civilians had been killed in drone strikes since 2008, a figure in conflict with other numbers previously released by the government and those cited by rights groups.

The submission said there had been 317 drone strikes in Pakistan since 2008, killing 2,160 militants and 67 civilians.

Opposition groups disputed the official figures and insisted that civilian deaths are high than the government has presented in the parliament.

Nawaz Sharif asks Afghan Taliban to join peace process

Prime Minister, Nawaz Sharif, in his first public appeal to the Afghan Taliban, on Tuesday asked them to join direct talks with the Kabul-backed peace council aimed at ending the years-old war in the neighbouring country.

Mr Sharif made rare appeal to the Taliban hours before his meeting with President Hamid Karzai at a trilateral summit in London.

British Prime Minister will host the summit that will mainly focus on Afghan reconciliation process.

“We want the Taliban become part of the peace process in Afghanistan. We want they should talk to the High Peace Council,” Nawaz Sharif told a group of Pakistani journalists in London, state radio reported.

This is the second time a Pakistani leader has made a public appeal to the Afghan Taliban, who have so far refused to talk to the Karzai government on the plea that Kabul has no power.

Former Prime Minister Yusuf Raza Gilani had appealed to the Taliban and Hizb-e-Islami, to participate in an intra-Afghan process for national reconciliation and peace in February last year in response to Afghan President Hamid Karzai's request for help in the peace process.

Afghan government and its western allies believe that Islamabad still enjoy deep influence on the Taliban and can encourage them to join the peace process.

Pakistan says it had facilitated the opening of the Taliban political office in Qatar in June however the office was closed just days after its opening over the Taliban flag and of the Islamic Emirate, the name Taliban had used for their government.

On appeal from President Karzai, Pakistan has freed nearly 33 Afghan Taliban detainees to push for the peace process over the past ten months. However, none of the freed Taliban has joined the peace process.

Pakistan announced last month that it has freed senior Taliban leader Mullah Abdul Ghani Baradar on the appeal from President Karzai. However, Kabul now says Mullah Baradar has not yet been allowed a free movement.

Afghan officials say President Karzai will ask for whereabouts of Mullah Baradar when he meets Prime Minister Sharif in London later on Tuesday.

Nawaz Sharif urged the Afghan Taliban not to keep themselves out of the intra-Afghan dialogue as this will bring stability to Afghanistan.

“All sides should join the peace process. It will ensure stability in Afghanistan and stability there will bring stability to Pakistan and the whole region,” the Pakistani PM said. He also stressed on Pakistan role in the Afghan peace process.

To a question about talks with Pakistani Taliban, Nawaz Sharif said as his government makes some progress towards the dialogue, a terrorist attack causes a setback to the process.

“But now we want to speed up the process,” he said, adding that he has directed the interior Minister to take the political parties into the confidence and take steps to begin talks with the Taliban.

Pakistan army chief holds talks with top Chinese defence officials in Beijing

Pakistan Army Chief, General Ashfaq Parvez Kayani held separate meetings with top Chinese defence officials including General Fan Changlong, Vice Chairman Central Military Commission and Mr Guo Shengkun, State Councilor & Minister for Ministry of Public Security in Beijing said Monday.

The army chief reiterated goodwill of the Government and people of Pakistan and thanked Chinese leadership for China’s eternal support to Pakistan.

Security situation in the region and the possible role both countries can play towards strategic stability was also discussed during the meetings. Talks also encompassed the measures to boost mutual cooperation on a wide range of issues.

Gen. Kayani was also the guest of honour earlier in the day, on a banquet hosted by Mr Zhang Yesui, Executive Vice Minister of Foreign Affairs  and later in the evening in the banquet hosted by General Hou Shusen, Deputy Chief of General Staff, Peoples Liberation Army.

The Army said earlier during the visit, the army chief will call on China’s political and military leadership.

“The interaction will encompass Pak-China relations with particular emphasis on defence and security cooperation,” the statement from the army’s Inter-Services Public Relations said.

Meanwhile an eleven-member Chinese Parliamentary delegation arrived in Islamabad on a three-day visit on Monday, officials said.

Chairman Senate Standing Committee on Defence Mushahid Hussain Syed welcomed the delegation at Benazir Bhutto International Airport.

Wang Zhengwei, Vice Chairman of the National Committee of Chinese People’s Political Consultative Conference (CPPCC), is leading the delegation.

The delegation will meet Chairman Senate Syed Nayyer Hussain Bokhari‚ Speaker National Assembly Sardar Ayaz Sadiq, Leader of the Senate, Raja Zafarul Haq and Chairman Senate Defence Committee Senator Mushahid Hussain. They will also have interaction with members of the Senate Standing Committee on Defence and Defence Production.

The delegation will also attend the reception hosted by Leader of the House in the Senate Raja Zafarul Haq.

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Mystery shrouds burning of Commissioner Peshawar, Sahibzada Anis, in Islamabad

Mystery shrouds the burning of Commissioner Peshawar, Sahibzada Anis-ur-Rehman, in Islamabad, on Saturday as the police do not have a clear stance on the incident.

Police sources said Mr Anis was burnt when fire broke out in a flat in posh F-10 sector along with a woman.

Doctors at the Pakistan Institute of Medical Sciences say that almost 100 percent of the body of the senior official and that doctors are trying to save his life. He was shifted to the hospital in critical condition.

It was stated earlier that fire broke out in the flat's kitchen but later the police came with a different statement that the blaze engulfed the flat as Mr Anis lighted off his cigarette.

Police said that Peshawar Commissioner was staying with his family at the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa house but he later came to the Pak Tower in F-10 sector.

The injured woman was identified as Asghar-un-Nisa, 29, and reports said she belongs to the tribal area.

Dr Ayesha, spokesperson for PIMS confirmed that consition of Sahibzada Anis and the woman is critical.

Some sources earlier claimed that Anis had arrived in Islamabad to see off his son who was scheduled to leave for the UK on Sunday.

Police said Anis and Asghar-un-Nisa had recorded statement with the statement. The woman was quoted as saying that she had arrived with Anis in the room. Anis had a different version and said the lady had come to the flat to attest documents.

Chief Minister KPK, Pervaiz Khattak, and other senior officials visited PIMS and inquired about the health of Sahibzada Anis.

Pakistan army says Indian forces committed 345 ceasefire violations

Pakistan army said Saturday that the Indian forces have committed 345 ceasefire violations in the disputed Kashmir region this year.

Pakistan had declared unilateral ceasefire in 2003 along the Line of Control, which divides Pakistan and India in the disputed Kashmir region.

India had positively responded to Pakistan announcement and also declared ceasefire.

Guns had been relatively silent since the ceasefire however forces of the two arch rivals traded fire in January this year.

Both countries accuse each other of violations that is continued and Pakistan said Saturday that Indian forces fired at a check post at Wahga, the recognized border between the two countries. No one was hurt in the latest firing.

The army’s spokesman, Major General Asim Bajwa said that Indian troops have carried out 345 violations this year so far.

“Number of ceasefire violations by India is on the rise,” General Bajwa said in a tweet.

India also levels similar allegations against Pakistani forces as the growing incidents of firing have caused diplomatic tensions.

Pakistani and Indian Prime Ministers at their summit in New York last month agreed to reduce the tension and had directed their military officials to meet and ensure implementation of the ceasefire agreement.

The Pakistani Foreign Ministry has expressed serious concerns over recent Indian ceasefire violations on the Line of Control.

Foreign Office Spokesperson Aizaz Ahmad Chaudhry pointed out on Friday that the Indian troops in recent days have intensified unprovoked shelling on the working boundary and targeted twenty seven Pakistani posts. It resulted in the death of two civilians and one security personnel.

He said despite these violations‚ Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif has extended a hand of friendship to India and he has repeatedly expressed Pakistan's desire to have good neighborly relations with India.

The spokesperson said India should respect the ceasefire and reciprocate to Pakistan's sincere efforts for peace and stability in the region.

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Blast near pilgrims’ bus kills two security men in Balochistan

Two Pakistani security personnel were killed in a bomb attack near a bus of pilgrims in the restive Balochistan province on Saturday, officials said.

The bus was carrying pilgrims to the border city of Taftan when the bomb exploded in Mastung district, killing two security men at the scene, , Deputy Commissioner Mehran Shah said.

The security men were guarding the bus in view of series of attacks in Shiite pilgrims in Balochistan by banned sectarian groups. 

None of the bus passenger was hurt, officials said.

Some reports said that the bomb was placed at a small car and parked along the route of the pilgrims bus.

No group claimed responsibility.

President Obama, Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif issue joint statement

President Barrack Obama and Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif Thursday issued a joint statement at the conclusion of Mr Sharif's official visit to Washington from October 20 to 23.

Following is the text of the statement issued in Islamabad and Washington.

"At the invitation of President Obama, Prime Minister Sharif paid an official visit to Washington from October 20 to 23, 2013, marking the commitment of both Leaders to strengthen U.S.-Pakistan relations and advance shared interests in a stable, secure, and prosperous Pakistan and region.

President Obama and Prime Minister Sharif held wide-ranging discussions at the White House today about the importance of a U.S.-Pakistan partnership built on a foundation of mutual interest and respect. They acknowledged the substantial progress in the bilateral relationship over the last year and noted its resilient nature. 

The President and the Prime Minister affirmed U.S.-Pakistan friendship and close cooperation and recalled our positive contributions to international peace and security at crucial junctures during the Cold War and in the post-9/11 period. Reaffirming the strong relationship between the two countries, they stressed that our enduring partnership is based on the principles of respect for sovereignty and territorial integrity.

They expressed their conviction that an enduring U.S.-Pakistan partnership is vital to regional and international security and recognized their shared interest in Pakistan’s economic growth and development, regional stability, and mutually determined measures to counter terrorism.  President Obama conveyed appreciation for Pakistan’s internal and regional security challenges and affirmed that a peaceful, prosperous, and democratic Pakistan was an essential partner for the United States in the advancement of shared goals of peace, security, and socio-economic development in South Asia.

Shared Democratic Values:

President Obama congratulated Prime Minister Sharif on being elected to office in the historic May elections, observing that the smooth democratic transition between two elected governments was a milestone for the democratic institutions in Pakistan. Affirming that both the United States and Pakistan are committed to democracy, human rights, freedom, and respect for international law, President Obama and Prime Minister Sharif dedicated themselves to deepening and enhancing the relationship between the peoples of the United States and Pakistan.

An Enduring Partnership

Both leaders welcomed the resumption of the U.S.-Pakistan Strategic Dialogue and reaffirmed its importance as the suitable framework for guiding the bilateral relationship.  They emphasized that the dialogue should focus on people-centered initiatives and on results-oriented outcomes in support of the long-term stability, prosperity, and security of both the United States and Pakistan. They discussed the forthcoming Ministerial-level Strategic Dialogue, which Secretary Kerry would be hosting in Washington by March 2014. They also decided on the strategic priorities for the five working groups including: 1) Law Enforcement and Counter terrorism; 2) Economics and Finance; 3) Energy; 4) Security, Strategic Stability, and Non-Proliferation; and 5) the Defense Consultative Group.

The Leaders underscored the importance of further reinforcing the positive momentum in the bilateral relationship by promoting people-to-people contacts, including parliamentary exchanges.  In this context, they also lauded the valuable role played by the Pakistani Diaspora in the United States in bringing the two countries together.

Economic Growth, Energy, and Social Sector Cooperation

Prime Minister Sharif highlighted his government’s efforts for economic growth, energy security, social development, and good governance.  He thanked President Obama for the important contribution the United States has made in supporting Pakistan’s development efforts, including through the Enhanced Partnership with Pakistan Act of 2009.  The Leaders discussed the Prime Minister’s deep commitment to increasing economic growth in Pakistan and to taking the steps necessary to put Pakistan on a path of long-term economic growth and stability.  The President  gave the assurance that the United States would strongly support efforts to enlarge and strengthen Pakistan’s economy, particularly in the energy sector, as this sector could play a critical role in ensuring the well-being and prosperity of the people of Pakistan.

President Obama reiterated U.S. support for ongoing programs to strengthen Pakistan’s economy and increased agricultural productivity. He also pledged continued support to help Pakistan address its energy shortfall, a key focus of U.S. assistance to Pakistan. Noting that resolving Pakistan’s energy crisis is a top priority for his government, Prime Minister Sharif expressed his commitment to expand power generation capacity, promote the efficient use of energy resources, and better utilize Pakistan’s domestic natural gas, hydroelectric, and renewable resources.

The Leaders emphasized that both sides should work together on a range of options to enable Pakistan to overcome its energy deficiencies and that both sides will hold further discussions in the working groups on Energy and Security, Strategic Stability, and Non-Proliferation. 

President Obama noted that U.S. assistance in the energy sector has added over 1,000 megawatts of power to Pakistan’s national grid, helping over 16 million Pakistanis. Prime Minister Sharif expressed appreciation for U.S. assistance toward the construction and rehabilitation of GomalZam, Satpara, Mangla,and Tarbela dams and the modernization of Guddu, Jamshoro, and Muzaffargarh power plants, and the Leaders highlighted the recent Overseas Private Investment Corporation (OPIC) loan for private sector wind development in Sindh. 

Prime Minister Sharif also thanked President Obama for U.S. support toward the Diamer-Bhasha and Dasu dams, which are critical to meeting Pakistan’s long-term energy and water needs. He also welcomed the announcement of funding for the Kaitu Weir Hydroelectric and Irrigation Project, which will increase Pakistan’s overall energy production, expand the amount of irrigated land, and provide livelihood options for residents of North Waziristan. The two Leaders looked forward to the meeting of the Working Group on Energy in November 2013, followed by a U.S.-organized Pakistani trade mission to Houston, Texas, to meet with major U.S. energy companies.  In preparation for this working group, the two Leaders instructed their teams to develop a U.S. technical assistance program to support the development of Pakistan’s domestic natural gas reserves.

President Obama also reaffirmed U.S. support in key areas such as economic growth, agriculture, health, and education.  The President highlighted that the United States remains Pakistan’s largest export market and one of the largest sources of foreign direct investment in Pakistan. The Prime Minister welcomed U.S. support to private sector-led growth and job creation in Pakistan, including through the Pakistan Private Investment Initiative (PPII) launched at the jointly sponsored Pakistan Business Opportunities Conference in Dubai in June 2013, which would make a matching investment of $100 million in the development and expansion of small and medium size businesses in Pakistan.

Prime Minister Sharif highlighted his keen interest in expanding bilateral trade and investment, and the two Leaders reaffirmed their commitment to this end.  The two Leaders pledged to continue this discussion through the Strategic Dialogue process and noted that the United States-Pakistan Trade and Investment Framework Agreement (TIFA)is the key vehicle to promote U.S. investments in Pakistan.  The President announced that United States Trade Representative Michael Froman would invite his counterpart to Washington for a TIFA Council meeting, at which these issues could be discussed in greater depth.The two Leaders directed their senior officials to develop a joint action plan to expand trade and investment flows between the United States and Pakistan over the next five years and expressed their intention to hold the third U.S.-Pakistan Economic Opportunities Conference in the next year.  Both leaders affirmed their commitment to the multilateral trading system and to a successful 9th Ministerial Conference of the World Trade Organization in Bali.

Expressing satisfaction atthe implementation of the 2003 Agreement on Science and Technology Cooperation between the United States and Pakistan and acknowledging its significance in promoting a decade of intensified cooperation between the two countries, the two Leaders decided to extend the agreement through 2018.They also discussed the importance of investing in Pakistan’s growing youth population through high-quality education programs. President Obama reiterated that U.S. assistance for education in Pakistan has built or rehabilitated over 600 schools, provided 12,000 university scholarships to Pakistani students, trained more than 10,000 teachers and school administrators, and provided more U.S.-funded scholarships under the prestigious Fulbright program in Pakistan than anywhere else in the world.  These investments help prepare Pakistan’s younger generation to enter the job market and become leaders in their country and communities, and the two Leaders expressed their shared intent to further promote educational and research opportunities for Pakistani students, scholars, and researchers in U.S. institutions. President Obama also highlighted the announcement of the USAID Reading Initiative, which is aimed at helping over 3.2 million Pakistani school children learn to read.

Defense Cooperation

Taking note of the robust bilateral defense cooperation between their two countries -- including recent military engagements, exercises, and consultations on regional security -- President Obama and Prime Minister Sharif expressed satisfaction with the positive momentum achieved in defense relations and reaffirmed that this partnership should continue to grow and endure.  The two Leaders noted with satisfaction that the Ground Lines of Communication (GLOCs)are facilitating the movement of U.S. and International Security Assistance Force (ISAF) cargo through Pakistan.

Prime Minister Sharif conveyed appreciation for U.S. security assistance in support of Pakistan’s counter terrorism, counterinsurgency, counter narcotics, and maritime security operations and expressed hope of broadening bilateral defense cooperation in areas that serve mutual interest. To bolster these efforts, the United States plans to continue providing assistance and support, including training and equipment to Pakistan’s military and security services. The two Leaders decided to strengthen their cooperation, including in regional maritime security. President Obama noted Pakistan’s positive efforts to counter improvised explosive devices(IEDs) and both leaders resolved to continue working together to disrupt the threat posed by these devices. President Obama commended the resolve of the government and people of Pakistan, armed forces, and law enforcement agencies to defeat terrorists and praised Pakistan for its military campaign.  They shared their mutual conviction that a stable and peaceful Pakistan-Afghanistan border was important for the success of counter terrorism, counterinsurgency, and counter-IED efforts, and they underscored the critical significance of effective border coordination mechanisms between Pakistan and Afghanistan in achieving these objectives.

Counter terrorism

Both President Obama and Prime Minister Sharif condemned terrorism in all its forms and manifestations.  The Prime Minister shared his perspective on effective counter terrorism cooperation to achieve the mutual objective of defeating terrorism.  President Obama thanked Prime Minister Sharif for Pakistan’s efforts to help defeat al-Qa’ida, and both Leaders expressed their deep appreciation for the sacrifices of military personnel and civilians in the fight against terrorism and extremism. The two Leaders emphasized that no country’s territory should be used to destabilize its neighbors.  Further, the Leaders noted that extremism and terrorism represent a common challenge for humanity and that the solution lies in collaboration and joint efforts by the international community.

Nonproliferation, Nuclear Security and Strategic Stability

President Obama and Prime Minister Sharif emphasized that nuclear terrorism is one of the most challenging threats to international security.  President Obama appreciated Pakistan’s constructive engagement with the Nuclear Security Summit process and its cooperation with the International Atomic Energy Agency and other international forums, while acknowledging Pakistan’s efforts to improve its strategic trade controls and enhance its engagement with multilateral export regimes. Looking ahead to the 2014 Nuclear Security Summit at the Hague, the two Leaders reaffirmed the commitments of the 2012 Nuclear Security Summit in Seoul, strengthening nuclear security; reducing the threat of nuclear terrorism; preventing terrorists, criminals, or other unauthorized actors from acquiring nuclear materials; and working closely for the objectives of the Summit. They acknowledged the importance of regional balance and stability in South Asia and pursuing increased transparency and uninterrupted dialogue in support of peaceful resolutions of all outstanding issues.  Prime Minister Sharif affirmed Pakistan’s support for the universal objectives of non-proliferation and disarmament.  The two Leaders underscored that all sides should continuously act with maximum restraint and work jointly toward strengthening strategic stability in South Asia.Prime Minister Sharif expressed Pakistan’s desire to join the multilateral export regimes.  President Obama reiterated his confidence in Pakistan’s commitment and dedication to nuclear security and recognized that Pakistan is fully engaged with the international community on nuclear safety and security issues.

Regional Cooperation

President Obama and Prime Minister Sharif renewed their determination to promote peace, stability,and transparency throughout the region.  They committed to work together to combat international terrorism and extremism and to promote peace and prosperity.

The two leaders welcomed progress on the Turkmenistan-Afghanistan-Pakistan-India (TAPI) pipeline project, and tasked the Energy Working Group to explore possible further U.S. support for the Central Asia-South Asia electricity line, CASA-1000, in close collaboration with the World Bank.  Prime Minister Sharif expressed appreciation for the development and rehabilitation by the U.S. government of roads in Pakistan’s border areas, including the four major transit routes between Afghanistan and Pakistan.  Both sides emphasized the need to maintain and enhance the GLOCs’ relevant infrastructure, and Prime Minister Sharif welcomed the recently signed agreement between Pakistan’s National Highway Authority and USAID to rehabilitate 247 kilometers of the Kalat-Chamanroad, which will help pave the way for regional trade by linking Kandahar to Quetta and to the port of Karachi.

The President and Prime Minister reaffirmed that a peaceful, stable, independent, and united Afghanistan is in the interest of the region. They welcomed the ongoing security transition in Afghanistan and Afghan-led preparations for next April's presidential elections.  The two Leaders recognized the important role of countries in the region in supporting Afghanistan’s progress toward stability and prosperity and stressed that continued engagement by the international community in Afghanistan’s economic and social development and reconstruction would be essential in ensuring the long-term security and prosperity of the Afghan people. Prime Minister Sharif also underlined that the support of the international community in the repatriation of Afghan refugees from Pakistan and their reintegration in Afghanistan was of critical importance to Pakistan.  The two Leaders emphasized their support for a policy of non-interference in Afghanistan.

The Leaders affirmed their commitment to the Afghan-led and Afghan-owned peace and reconciliation process as the surest way to end violence and bring lasting stability to Afghanistan and the region. Acknowledging Pakistan’s efforts to support an inclusive reconciliation process in which Afghans determine the future of their country, both Leaders called on the Taliban to join the political process and enter into dialogue with the Afghan government.

The two Leaders stressed that improvement in Pakistan-India bilateral relations would greatly enhance prospects for lasting regional peace, stability, and prosperity, as it would significantly benefit the lives of citizens on both sides of the border. In this context, President Obama welcomed recent engagements between Prime Minister Sharif and Prime Minister Singh and expressed hope that this would mark the beginning of a sustained dialogue process between the two neighbors, aimed at building lasting peace in South Asia and resolving all outstanding territorial and other disputes through peaceful means.President Obama welcomed steps taken by Pakistan and India to improve their economic relations, including by exploring electricity and gas supply agreements, developing a reciprocal visa regime,and expanding bilateral trade.

Conclusion

President Obama thanked the Prime Minister for visiting the United States, and both Leaders committed themselves to remaining in close contact and to continuing their efforts to build a strong, broad-based, long-term, and enduring relationship between the United States and Pakistan that should serve as a foundation for the stability and prosperity of the region and around the globe."

PM Nawaz Sharif calls for end to drone strikes in Obama meeting

Pakistani Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif Wednesday used his meeting with US President Barack Obama to call for an end to drone strikes in the country’s tribal regions.

Sharif told a joint press conference at the Oval Office, the PM said he raised the drone issue  and urged for halt to the drone campaign.

"I also brought up the issue of drones in our meeting, emphasizing the need for an end to such strikes," he said.The press conference was shown live by Pakistan's state TV.

  

Obama avoided mentioning the issue but said Pak-U.S. partnership is “based on the principles of respect for sovereignty and territorial integrity.”

Obama emphasized on Pakistan’s role in peace in Afghanistan as the US and its allies are in the process of withdrawing troops from Afghanistan.

Obama said he was “confident” of a solution “that is good for Afghanistan, but also helps to protect Pakistan over the long term.”

The US President hailed Pakistan’s sacrifices from extremism. More than 40,000 Pakistanis have died in attacks over the past decade.

“I know the Prime Minister is very much committed to try to reduce this incidence of terrorism inside Pakistan” and also wants to stop its export, Obama said.

Obama acknowledged tensions and “misunderstandings” between the two countries. He said the two leaders had pledged to work together on security issues in ways that “respect Pakistan’s sovereignty.”

“We committed to working together and making sure that rather than this being a source of tension between our two countries, this can be a source of strength for us working together,” Obama said.

Both countries agreed to revive Strategic dialogue in March 2014

 “Both leaders welcomed the resumption of the US-Pakistan Strategic Dialogue and reaffirmed its importance as the suitable framework for guiding the bilateral relationship,” a joint statement read.

The discussed the forthcoming Ministerial-level Strategic Dialogue, which Secretary Kerry would be hosting in Washington by March 2014, will focus on people-centered initiatives and on results-oriented outcomes in support of the long-term stability, prosperity, and security of both the United States and Pakistan.

In addition to that, the two countries also decided on the strategic priorities for the five working groups including: 1) Law Enforcement and Counterterrorism; 2) Economics and Finance; 3) Energy; 4) Security, Strategic Stability, and Non-Proliferation; and 5) the Defense Consultative Group.

President Obama reiterated his confidence in Pakistan’s commitment and dedication to nuclear security and recognised that Pakistan is fully engaged with the international community on nuclear safety and security issues.

Both leaders emphasised that nuclear terrorism is one of the most challenging threats to international security.

Obama appreciated Pakistan’s constructive engagement with the Nuclear Security Summit process and its cooperation with the International Atomic Energy Agency and other international forums, while acknowledging Pakistan’s efforts to improve its strategic trade controls and enhance its engagement with multilateral export regimes.

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Pakistan army says Indian troops have increased attacks

Pakistan army said late Wednesday that Indian troops have increased firing on Pakistani areas and targeted civilian populations.

“During last two days, Indian troops have intensified violations and carried out unprovoked firing on working boundary in Pukhlian, Chaprar, Harpal and Charwah Sectors near Sialkot, and targeted civil populated areas,” the Pakistan army spokesman said.

The army spokesman said in a statement that the Indian Border Security Forces also targeted 27 Pakistani posts in the same area in last two days and fired almost four thousand mortar shells and fifty nine thousand rounds of machine guns.

“Pakistani troops have effectively responded to Indian firing,” a statement from the army’s Inter-Services Public Relations quoted the spokesman as saying.

He said during last 2 weeks, due to Indian shelling 2 civilians and a paramilitary soldier has been killed and 26 civilians have been injured on working boundary and LoC.

The army’s statement came hours after India accused Pakistan of heavy shelling at more than 30 locations along the Line of Control (LoC), which divides Pakistan and India in the disputed Kashmir region.

Indian Home Minister Sushilkumar Shinde was quoted by Indian TV channels as saying Pakistan will “get a befitting reply,” to the alleged attacks.

Guns had been silent since the two uneasy neighbours had declared a ceasefire in 2003 however troops started exchange of firing in January this year.

Prime Ministers of the two countries met in New York last month and agreed to reduce tensions. They had directed their military officials to meet and explore ways to implement the ceasefire.

However the skirmishes have increased in recent days causing casualties on both sides and escalating tensions.

Both sides accused each other at a time when Pakistani Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif was scheduled to meet President Barack Obama in Washington to discuss regional security besides bilateral relations.

Tension between Pakistan and India, both nuclear powers, is also a matter of concern for the U.S. and other friendly and neighbouring countries. They have always called upon both the South Asian rivals to show restrain and resolve problems through dialogue.

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Pakistan bans three groups on China’s request

Pakistan,on demand from China, has decided to ban three Islamic groups for their activities in the Chinese Muslim-majority Xinjiang Uyghur Autonomous Region, media quoted the Interior Ministry as saying.

The Interior Ministry sources said the foreign groups have been added to the list of outlawed groups, BBC Urdu reported on Wednesday.

Quoting Pakistani intelligence sources, the report said the groups’ members plan extremist activities and provoke the people against the government.

The groups include East Turkestan Islamic Movement, Islamic Movement of Uzbekistan and Islamic Jehad Union.

Chinese officials had informed Pakistan about the groups activities and the issue had been under discussion of military leaders of the two countries.

The sources said Chinese authorities had informed Pakistan that members of the groups are in touch with Xinxiang province and they had concerns that members of the outfits can use Chinese for their objectives.

The groups members believed to have taken shelter in the Pakistani tribal regions and Skardu in northern areas and in the border regions with China.

Pakistani officials have sought some more information from Chinese and Uzbekistan governments about the groups members who say they want nearly 50 suspects. Ten women are among the wanted list. Some of them impart training to women suicide bombers.

The IJU has also nationals from Chechnya, Azerbaijan and Sudan.

Abdul Rahman Yeldraov of ETIM is the most wanted and Suriya Asrnov tops the women wanted list, who is believed is an expert to prepare suicide bombers.

The sources said that these groups have links with al-Qaeda and their possibility of involvement in war against security forces in Pakistan and Afghanistan cannot be ruled out.
The Interior Ministry sources said that Pakistani security forces have arrested some members of these groups during operations in the tribal regions.

In view of their possible attacks on Chinese nationals in Pakistan, the government has increased security for Chinese diplomats. The Deputy Inspector General Security Division has been tasked to devise a special security plan for the Chinese diplomats."

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Amnesty report on US drones civilian casualties endorses Pakistan stand: spokesman

Pakistan said on Tuesday that a latest Amnesty International's report that the United States has killed civilians in unlawful drone attacks in the country’s tribal regions has endorsed its stance about the negative consequences of the strikes.

Amnesty International report “Will I be next?” released on Tuesday said the Obama administration may be guilty of war crimes as many of those killed accounted for by the US military as terrorists were in fact civilians, including a 68-year-old grandmother and a 14-year-old boy.

Pakistan was quick to respond to the report’s findings and said a stand is emerging across the world that the results of the U.S. drone strikes are harmful for inter-state relations and the world peace.

“The Amnesty International report is timely and it endorses our policy about the U.S. drone strikes,” Foreign Ministry spokesman, Aizaz Ahmed Chaudhry, said.

The spokesman told Geo television Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif will raise the drone issue during his current visit to the United States, adding Pakistani government and the leadership are raising the issue at every forum and bilaterally with the U.S.

Prime Minister Sharif, who is scheduled to meet President Barrack Obama at the White House on Wednesday, has also indicated to take up the matter with the U.S. President.

The Amnesty report said some of the attacks “could even amount to war crimes.” The US however says the number of deaths is much lower, but the exact figure is classified.

“Secrecy surrounding the drones program gives the US administration a licence to kill beyond the reach of the counter or basic standards of international law. It's time for the US to come clean about the drones program and hold those responsible for these violations to account,” Mustafa Qadri, Amnesty's Pakistan researcher said.

Pakistani spokesman said the country’s principled stand is that these attacks are not only against sovereignty but also the international laws and its benefits are less than its negative implications in the war on terror.

“This stance is now accepted across the world. The UN Secretary General and the world human rights groups endorse it,” he went on to say.

Asked if Pakistan plans to take the issue to the International Court of Justice as the report pointed out civilian casualties, the spokesman said Pakistan is raising the issue bilaterally, taking up it at the UN and a public opinion is emerging and its pressure will be effective and will prove durable.

To a question about civilian casualties figure, Chaudhry said civilian deaths are a matter of serious concerns for Pakistan as life of any human being is precious, adding Pakistan had shared the available figures with the UN special representative when he visited the country in March.

The United Nation's special rapporteur on human rights and counterterrorism Ben Emmerson has published his report and the report will come under discussion in the UN shortly, he said.

The Pakistani spokesman said implications of the U.S. drone strikes are far-reaching and the international community and Pakistan believe drone strikes should be stopped.

Pakistan rejects Indian Foreign Minister’s remarks on Kashmir

Pakistan on Monday expressed disappointment at the comments by the Indian External Affairs Minister, Salman Khurshid, that Kashmir is an integral part of India and that New Delhi will not accept any intervention in its row with Pakistan on the issue.

Khurshid told Indian NDTV on Sunday that India “in no way will accept any intervention as Kashmir is a part of India, not something that should be questioned. It is a waste of time to question it.”

Mr Khurshid's statement came after media reports quoted Pakistan Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif saying how he had sought for intervention from the US in 1999 on Kashmir.

Pakistani said the Kashmir dispute is the core issue that remains unresolved between the two countries.

“It is unfortunate that Indian leadership continues to refer to the state of Jammu and Kashmir as an integral part of India, when the reality is clearly otherwise,” the Foreign Ministry said.

The Foreign Ministry spokesman said in a statement as a member of the United Nations, India should not overlook or undermine the numerous UN Security Council resolutions on this issue.

“While bilateral agreements may exist, the sanctity of the UN resolutions cannot be understated. The Kashmir dispute remains a fundamental component of the bilateral dialogue process and resolution of this dispute is vital for maintaining peace and security in the region.”

He said India’s continued intransigence over this issue is counterproductive and is unhelpful in the efforts to resolve this dispute.

    

“Pakistan remains committed to a purposeful, constructive and result-oriented dialogue with India and believes that serious efforts need to be made in maintaining a positive atmosphere and avoid negative propaganda,” the spokesman said.

The statements came at a time when tensions escalated following exchange of firing by troops of both countries along the Line of Control in the disputed Kashmir region.

Pakistan’s state radio reported Monday that two Pakistanis were killed in a latest shelling by Indian forces.

Both accuse each other of violation of the 2003 ceasefire.

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Pakistan’s ex-minister bare-foot march against US drone attacks

A former Pakistani minister Monday marched in the capital Islamabad to call for end to the U.S. drone strikes on the eve of Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif’s meeting with President Barack Obama.

Both leaders are scheduled to meet at the White House on Wednesday and Mr Sharif says he will raise the issue of the U.S. drone strikes in the country’s tribal regions.

Former Pakistani federal minister, Julius Salik, alone marched towards the parliament building while bare-foot as a protest against the American drone attacks in the Pakistani tribal regions.

Salik, also the Convener of the World Minorities Alliance, dressed in black suit as sign of protest and to mourn the death of civilians in the U.S. drone strikes.

He told reporters the march is aimed at inviting of Secretary General United Nations, Pope and Bishop of Canterbury to use their good offices to stop the U.S. drone attacks.

He was carrying a poster inscribed with slogan was “Obama: stop drone attacks”. The poster had photos of President Obama and Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif.

A police mobile car and an ambulance were moving with the former minister during his three-hour protest march.

Salik said the protest he wants to invite attention of President Obama to immediately stop drone attacks which he said are killing innocent people.

Blast at a train kills seven passengers in Balochistan

A bomb blast on a railway track in Balochistan Monday killed at least seven passengers, police said.

Jaffar Express came under attack when a remote control bomb exploded near Dera Murad Jamali.

More than ten people were injured‚ who were shifted to civil hospital.

Five bogies of the train were also derailed, officials said.

Minister for Railways Khawaja Saad Rafiq termed attack on Jaffar Express as a cowardice and barbaric act.

The Minister said that seven people have so far been killed and more than ten injured in the bomb blast. He feared that the death toll can rise as rescue efforts are still underway.

Khawaja Saad Rafiq said that relief trains have been sent from Sukkur and Sibi‚ while ambulances and plice vans are also busy in shifting the injured to the hospitals.

Prime Minister Muhammad Nawaz Sharif has strongly condemned the blast.

The Prime Minister expressed profound grief over the loss of precious lives and prayed for early recovery of the injured.

Chief Minister Balochistan Dr. Abdul Malik Baloch has condemned the Jaffar Express bomb blast and directed the concerned authorities to conduct an inquiry into the incident. He has also announced that the provincial government itself will bear the expenses of the treatment of the injured.

PM Nawaz Sharif opens his official U.S. visit with Kerry talks

Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif Monday opened his three-day official visit to the United States with a meeting with Secretary of State John Kerry at the White House and both discussed matters of “mutual interest including regional stability and situation in Afghanistan,” officials said.

Earlier, upon his arrival at the Andrews Air Force Base in Washington, the Prime Minister was accorded warm welcome by the senior officials of the White House and the Department of State.

A smart contingent of the US armed services also presented guard of honour to the Prime Minister.

Welcoming the Prime Minister, Secretary Kerry expressed the confidence that the visit would provide the necessary impetus to further deepen and expand the US- Pakistan relations, an official statement said.

“Pakistan was an important country in the region and the US would be working with the democratic government of Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif in all areas of bilateral relations under the revived mechanism of the Strategic Dialogue,” the Secretary stressed.

He appreciated the bold decisions taken by Prime Minister Sharif for reviving the economy and overcoming the energy shortages.

Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif noted that he looked forward to meeting with President Obama at the White House on 23 October.

This would be the first summit level interaction between the two countries after the historic democratic transition in Pakistan.

The Prime Minister reiterated his determination to revive the economy and improve the law and order situation in Pakistan.

Outlining his vision of promoting peace and stability in the region, the Prime Minister emphasized the need to work together in meeting the common challenges of extremism and terrorism.

The Prime Minister was accompanied by Advisor to the Prime Minister on National Security and Foreign Affairs Mr. Sartaj Aziz, Finance Minister Mr. Ishaq Dar, Special Assistant to the Prime Minister on Foreign Affairs Syed Tariq Fatemi and Foreign Secretary Mr. Jalil Abbas Jilani.

From the US side, senior Administration officials including Defence Secretary Chuck Hagel, National Security Advisor Susan Rice, Director CIA John Brennan and SRAP James Dobbins assisted the Secretary of State.

Pakistan’s new legislation declares terrorists as enemy of state

President Mamnoon Hussain Sunday promulgated an ordinance which declares terrorists as enemies of state who will be tried in special courts.

The new law has been proposed to effectively deal with the issue of terrorism as there is no let up in militant attacks on the security forces and civilians.

“Writ of the state shall be restored with full might of the law; those to pursue fruit of terror and fear, regardless of nationality, color, creed or religion shall be treated as enemy aliens and dealt with strictly without any compunction,” the new legislation said.

The Pakistan Protection Ordinance said every possible state instrument and resource will be deployed to defeat and frustrate all or any nefarious attempt to create disorder in peaceful life and living.

The ordinance will be presented in the parliament for approval, officials said and argued that new legislative initiatives have been proposed in line with international best practices.

Special jails shall be designated to detain hardened criminals under the law which also says separate police stations to be designated for professional and expeditious investigations of specified crime, prosecuted through federal Prosecutors

Joint investigation Teams shall be constituted to conduct investigations by Security agencies and police in all heinous crimes committed in areas where forces are invited to aid civil power.

Special Federal Courts shall be designated to render inexpensive justice with promptitude as mandated by the constitution and those involved in syndicated crime shall be relocated in rest of the country for transparency and fair trial under.

The law said that all civil and military law enforcement agencies and their personnel where invited shall be given fullest protection of law to discharge their mission of restoration of peace in enabling environment within the parameters of the Constitution.

Officials defended the new law to deal with the elements hostile to Pakistan’s existence who have claimed 40,000 lives since 2001 in collaboration with unscrupulous locals. Over 4,000 soldiers and officers lost their lives to ensure that world at large remains at peace during last 11 years alone.

A government spokesman said that besides human losses, terrorism has caused the colossal damage of over US$ 100 billion was inflicted to the social and physical infrastructure.

President Mamnoon Hussain terms US drone attacks as problem in relationship

President Mamnoon Hussain on Sunday termed attacks by American spy aircraft in the country’s tribal regions as a problem in bilateral relationship.

Talking to reporters in Karachi the President said Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif will raise the issue of drone strikes in his meeting with President Barack Obama at White House on October 23.

“Drone strikes have proven to be a problem, not a solution, time and time again,” Mamnoon Hussain said after visiting the mausoleum of the country’s founder.

He said Pakistan takes up the drone issue at every form and with the American officials and Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif will once again address this issue during his visit.

Mr. Sharif is scheduled to reach Washington later on Sunday on a three-day official visit that will be first by a Pakistani Prime Minister in five years.

President Hussain said that improving trade between the US and Pakistan is also on Nawaz’s agenda.

Nawaz Sharif has also said he will take up the drone attacks issue with President Obama as these strikes challenge sovereignty of the country.

The U.S. has rejected Pakistan’s calls for halt in the CIA-controlled covert drone operations considering it as an effective tool to target al-Qaeda operative and the Taliban militants.

 

A United Nations special rapporteur on human rights and counter-terrorism, Ben Emmerson QC, has called on the US to declassify information about operations co-ordinated by the CIA and clarify its position on the legality of unmanned aerial attacks.

Emmerson, who travelled to Islamabad for his investigation, said in a report the Pakistan ministry of foreign affairs has records of as many as 330 drone strikes in the country's north-western tribal areas since 2004. Up to 2,200 people have been killed – of whom at least 400 were civilians – according to the Pakistan government.

On relations with India, President Hussain said that he believes that the upcoming elections in India are the main reason behind the increased firing incident across the Line of Control, which divides the two countries in the disputed Kashmir region.

“Election trick by India’s opposition Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) is an attempt to seek support of voters and to divert attention of the government to other issues,” he said.

He was confident that relationship will become normal after elections are held in Indian, adding that Pakistan shows restraint despite wheat he called ceasefire violations by India but said Pakistan has the right of defence.

“Pakistan desires cordial relations with its all neighbour and India should also adopt a positive attitude toward Pakistan,” President Hussain said.

PM, Nawaz Sharif, leaves for Washington to meet President Obama on Oct: 23

Prime Minister, Nawaz Sharif, left for Washington on a three-day official visit on Saturday to hold wide-ranging talks with U.S. President Barack Obama on October 23, state television reported.

It is the first official visit of a Pakistani Prime Minister to the United States in 5 years and he will hold his first meeting with President Obama since he assumed office following the May 11 elections.

The Prime Minister will also meet Vice President Biden and interact with Members of Congress. Senior US Government officials will also call on the Prime Minister, the Foreign Ministry said.

He will attend a business event organized by US-Pakistan Business Council, address the United States Institute of Peace and interact with the Pakistani-American community.

PTV reported that U.S. Secretary of State, John Kerry, hold talks with Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif on Sunday at the beginning of his October 20-23 visit.

“The upcoming visit of the Prime Minister will afford an opportunity to highlight the priorities of the Government for economic development of Pakistan, discuss measures to strengthen bilateral cooperation and enhance trade and investment and share his vision about peace and stability in our region,” an official statement said.

“Pakistan and the US share convergence on a wide range of issues including peace and stability in South Asia and Middle East as well as extremism and terrorism,” the Foreign Ministry said.

Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif and President Obama had a telephone conversation in May, when President Obama congratulated the Prime Minister on his Party’s victory in general elections and appreciated smooth democratic transition in Pakistan, the statement said.

“The two leaders had agreed to work together to strengthen U.S.-Pakistan relations and advance our shared interest of a stable, secure and prosperous Pakistan and the region,” the Foreign Ministry said

Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif had a series of high level meetings, including with the military leaders prior to his visit, to seek their proposals about his talks with President Obama and other leaders.

Section of the Pakistani media has reported that the prime minister would be seeking to address the Obama administration’s concerns that would shape US policy towards Pakistan.

“Mr Sharif would at the same time explain the rationale behind pursuing dialogue with Taliban militants in the country,” Dawn newspaper reported.

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