As China and Pakistan push to extend CPEC into Afghanistan for regional connectivity and economic revival, India objects, citing sovereignty over disputed territories. This commentary explores how New Delhi’s stance may hinder cooperation and isolate India in a rapidly shifting South-Central Asian landscape.
From South Asia to the West, history textbooks are being rewritten to serve national narratives, blurring the line between memory and mythology.
On July 22, 2025, Sufyan Baloch, a student, turned turned militant, got killed during a security operation against terrorists in Turbat, Balochistan. At just 25, he had a university degree, access to government-sponsored scholarships, and a promising future. But by the time of his death, he was a armed terrorist affiliated with the banned Balochistan Liberation Army (BLA).
![Senior Taliban leader Abbas Stanekzai flees to India amid internal rifts, defying Akhundzada’s ban on girls' education. [Image via SAT Creatives]](https://southasiatimes.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/02/SAT-Web-Banners-41-300x300.webp)
Senior Taliban leader Abbas Stanekzai flees to India amid internal rifts, defying Akhundzada’s ban on girls’ education.
![BLA commander Mushtaq Kohi killed in Kabul, raising questions on India's alleged support for Baloch separatist groups. [Image via SAT Creatives]](https://southasiatimes.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/02/SAT-Web-Banners-5-300x300.webp)
BLA commander Mushtaq Kohi killed in Kabul, raising questions on India’s alleged support for Baloch separatist groups.
![Syria's interim president Ahmed al-Sharaa visits Saudi Arabia, seeking Gulf support for reconstruction and stability. [Image via Reuters]](https://southasiatimes.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/02/2025-02-02T135341Z_998615876_RC2DMCAJQHY3_RTRMADP_3_SYRIA-POLITICS-SAUDI-300x300.webp)
Syria’s interim president Ahmed al-Sharaa visits Saudi Arabia, seeking Gulf support for reconstruction and stability.
ISKP’s resurgence in Afghanistan threatens regional security, with Pakistan facing deadly attacks and growing militant activity.
![The Afghan Taliban-ISKP spiral is spiraling out of control, threatening stability—Akora Khattak’s tragedy is just the tip of the iceberg. [Image via SAT Creatives]](https://southasiatimes.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/SAT-Web-Banners-33-300x300.webp)
The Afghan Taliban-ISKP spiral is spiraling out of control, threatening stability—Akora Khattak’s tragedy is just the tip of the iceberg.
![Taliban deny Trump’s claim that China has control of Bagram Air Base, asserting their sole authority over the former U.S. facility. [Image via AP]](https://southasiatimes.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/01000000-0aff-0242-54ee-08db12afab03_w1023_r1_s-300x300.webp)
Taliban deny Trump’s claim that China has control of Bagram Air Base, asserting their sole authority over the former U.S. facility.
India’s Waqf system is under siege, echoing the fears of Partition. As minority rights are targeted, the nation’s secular identity faces a critical test.
With Pakistan’s refugee challenge escalating, the world must confront its role in the Afghan crisis and share the burden.
In a landmark move to enhance bilateral defense relations, Pakistan and Brazil signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) on Defence Cooperation during the Latin American
Pakistan wins narrative war vs India. Global media highlights India’s losses and Pakistan’s strategic response after recent conflict.
Diplomatic Arrogance? India’s Strained Relationships with the West
India’s hostile reaction to US peace brokering, its dealings with Russia and Iran, and criticism of European diplomacy paint a picture of a challenging partner.
On May 16, 2025, South Asia Times (SAT) hosted an engaging Twitter Space session, “Pahalgam Attack and the Resurfacing of Kashmir Conflict in International Discourse”.
CPEC, the flagship of China’s Belt and Road Initiative, is transforming Pakistan through enhanced connectivity, infrastructure, industrial growth, and regional integration, positioning the country as a future geo-economic hub.
The recent fallout between India and France over the combat performance of Rafale fighter jets has cast a revealing spotlight on India’s military transparency—or lack
Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s conspicuous absence from the upcoming G7 Summit in Canada marks a significant diplomatic rupture in New Delhi’s recent trajectory of
Pakistan wins narrative war vs India. Global media highlights India’s losses and Pakistan’s strategic response after recent conflict.
Diplomatic Arrogance? India’s Strained Relationships with the West
India’s hostile reaction to US peace brokering, its dealings with Russia and Iran, and criticism of European diplomacy paint a picture of a challenging partner.
On May 16, 2025, South Asia Times (SAT) hosted an engaging Twitter Space session, “Pahalgam Attack and the Resurfacing of Kashmir Conflict in International Discourse”.
By equipping the Agni-5 with a massive conventional warhead, India introduces a strategic asymmetry that will force Pakistan to respond through doctrinal, technological, and defensive adaptations.
Despite Taliban promises, TTP’s cross-border attacks from Afghan soil persist, exposing a widening gap between Kabul’s rhetoric and ground realities.
As Trump touts a Gaza ceasefire deal backed by Israel, Iran and Hamas remain silent, signaling strategic recalculations amid unresolved core issues.
The Western response to Gaza & Ukraine unveils inconsistencies & hypocrisy – an eye-opening specter of West’s moral bankruptcy.
While India celebrates its 75th Republic Day, a banner of state-sponsored terrorism hangs in the backdrop.
On Bangladesh elections, there was either an “indifference” or an expression of alarm over how unfair & unfree an election cycle can get.
In a world undergoing a seismic shift in global dynamics, Pakistan finds itself at a crossroads, grappling not only with its democratic future but also with the complexities of a geopolitical chessboard.
What does this solidarity truly mean? Kashmir Solidarity Day should prompt deep introspection into the soul of Pakistan’s relationship with Kashmir
The journey from Nehru to Modi reflects a trajectory where Kashmir’s “special status” has never been genuinely honored in spirit
Amid global freedom struggles, Palestinian and Kashmiri fights for freedom are unique, narrating stories of resilience and resistance
From global conflict zones to South Asia’s tumult to Kashmir and Palestine, women in conflict zones need urgent attention and action
India-Pakistan ties amid regional destabilization, from religious fundamentalism to cultural indifference, lead to widespread discord
![An Indian police officer fires a tear gas shell during a protest in Srinagar last year [File: Danish Ismail/Reuters]](https://southasiatimes.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/c8ba2da9f3db4467aeeaf9895a089452_18-1-300x300.webp)
Modi-led government presents India as a rights champion, but the reality in Kashmir is grim due to prevalent human rights abuses in Kashmir
Pakistan’s endorsement of UNESCO’s Dance for Education ignites controversy, echoing the entanglement of cultural movements with nationalist politics seen in Bangladesh’s Chhayanaut.
Are India’s upcoming elections signaling a rise in Hindutva Fascism and its potential impact on Indian Muslims?
Mujhay Dil Se Na Bhulana, Pakistani iconic song from 1977 film Aaina, is cinematic masterpiece that ruled Lollywood for five years straight.
Reports of India’s transnational repression and state-sponsored terrorism under Modi have sparked intense debate and scrutiny
![Pakistan's Afghan policy: People crossing into Pakistan from Afghanistan are making their way through the Friendship Gate in Chaman [Image via Reuters].](https://southasiatimes.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/2021-08-15T143158Z_1093398639_RC2Q5P9W5VTP_RTRMADP_3_AFGHANISTAN-CONFLICT-PAKISTAN-300x300.webp)
Pakistan’s Afghan policy: More than meets the eye. From borders to Cold War and Taliban, unpack the history shaping their relationship.
![U.S.-China Defense Dialogue: US Secretary of Defense Lloyd Austin and Chinese Defence Minister Dong Jun attend a bilateral meeting [Image via Reuters]](https://southasiatimes.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/2024-05-31T080451Z_1040078488_RC2H18AAZE8J_RTRMADP_3_ASIA-SECURITY-USA-CHINA-1717156347-300x300.webp)
Can this U.S.-China defense dialogue pave the way for a more stable Asia-Pacific and global security environment?
![Ethnic Violence in Manipur - Violence broke out due to economic benefits and quotas for affirmative action [Image via AFP].](https://southasiatimes.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/33EF97Q-highres-1683466725-300x300.webp)
Ethnic violence in Manipur erupts between Kukis and Meiteis. Can ancient hatreds be buried or will Manipur see another cycle of violence?
![Modi's victory: Narendra Modi arrives at BJP headquarters in New Delhi on June 4. [Image via Adnan Abidi/Reuters]](https://southasiatimes.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/image-1717594386-300x300.webp)
Modi’s win faces challenges with Congress-led INDIA gains, hinting at political shifts and risks associated with Hindu nationalism
Pakistan wins narrative war vs India. Global media highlights India’s losses and Pakistan’s strategic response after recent conflict.
Diplomatic Arrogance? India’s Strained Relationships with the West
India’s hostile reaction to US peace brokering, its dealings with Russia and Iran, and criticism of European diplomacy paint a picture of a challenging partner.
On May 16, 2025, South Asia Times (SAT) hosted an engaging Twitter Space session, “Pahalgam Attack and the Resurfacing of Kashmir Conflict in International Discourse”.
Beyond the stunning views of India’s Darjeeling, discover the fascinating history of its Glenburn Tea Estate and the “Chaiwala Family”.
Desperate for international recognition and economic revival, the Taliban, now known as the IEA, walks a tightrope for Afghanistan’s Future.
Flooding in China devastates Yangtze River basin, displacing thousands. As the monsoon season looms over South Asia, is this a grim forecast for the region?
Youm-e-Istehsal 2024 marks a pivotal moment in Pakistan’s efforts to advocate for the rights of the Kashmiri people.
At least 91 people have been killed, including 13 police officers, and dozens more injured in a new round of violence in Bangladesh as police fired tear gas and lobbed stun grenades to disperse tens of thousands of protesters who returned to the streets to ask Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina to resign, during Bangladesh protests.
On August 5, 2024, Dhaka saw student-led protests leading to Sheikh Hasina’s resignation, while Kashmir marked 5 years since the abrogation of Article 370.
IMD predicts above normal rainfall in September following Cyclone Asna and records warmest August in India’s history.
Doctors’ strike in Bangladesh shuts down hospitals nationwide, stranding thousands after recent attacks on medical staff.
Bhutanese students return to Bangladesh as political unrest subsides. Educational institutions reopen amid improved conditions.
In a nation grappling with economic instability, the urgency to recalibrate State’s Institutional Engineering has never been more apparent.
Barter Trade agreements between Pakistan and Russia aim to strengthen bilateral trade amidst Western sanctions.
Iran launched 180 missiles at Israel, escalating tensions and prompting international responses amid fears of regional conflict.
![Pakistan economic recovery appears stable on paper, but the stark contrast with harsh realities prompts critical questions about sustainability. [Image via Business Recorder]](https://southasiatimes.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/62083cc68ffdb-300x300.webp)
Pakistan economic recovery appears stable on paper, but the stark contrast with harsh realities prompts critical questions about sustainability.
Bangladesh announces squad for ODI series against Afghanistan, with Shanto as captain; Shakib, Litton absent. Series starts Nov 6.
Intazar Ahmad Panjutha resurfaces after alleged abduction and torture, sparking controversy over security forces’ involvement.
![Federal Interior Minister of Pakistan Mohsin Naqvi congratulates UAE on National Day, highlighting strong ties and mutual cooperation. [Image via APP]](https://southasiatimes.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/Mohsin-Naqvi-300x300.webp)
Federal Interior Minister of Pakistan Mohsin Naqvi congratulates UAE on National Day, highlighting strong ties and mutual cooperation.
![Trump's White House return sparks trade tensions with Trump tariffs and BRICS opposition, disrupting global economic dynamics. [Image via SAT Creatives]](https://southasiatimes.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/SAT-Web-Banners-4-300x300.webp)
The return of Trump fuels trade tensions with tariffs on BRICS nations, challenging global economics and de-dollarization efforts.
![Pakistani military intensifies operations against armed groups amid rising violence and security challenges. [Image via AFP]](https://southasiatimes.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/AFP__20241110__36LY2RX__v1__HighRes__PakistanUnrestBlast-1-1733131587-300x300.webp)
Pakistani military intensifies operations against armed groups amid rising violence and security challenges.
Despite the recent escalation in hostilities that the TTP threat has sparked between Pakistan and Afghanistan, there is as yet a little possibility that Pakistan will use kinetic action across the border, and even less likely that Afghanistan would respond equitably even if it did.
Owing to its historical and current ties to regional terrorist groups, TTP is one of China\’s greatest security challenges. However, it is strategically unsustainable unless the Afghan Taliban stop supporting it on the pretext of fulfilling their ethno-religious obligations.
In light of the controversy over the cancellation of a cricket series between Australia and Afghanistan, it is crucial to ask whether sports are truly apolitical or if their non-political nature is only a concession to the world\’s most powerful lobbies.
While the 2002 Gujarat riots may have rendered certain memories of the atrocities unrecoverable and propelled Modi to the pinnacles of fame and notoriety in the last two decades, they surely won him friends across the world who continue to rally around him today.
While Iran\’s tacit assistance of terrorist groups in neighboring countries exacerbates the suffering of Pakistan and the South Asian region, insurgents and terrorist groups are challenging to put an end to as long as they have sanctuaries nearby.
Given its ambitions for a more assertive role in the global order, it is imperative to mention India\’s contested, historically monopolistic dominance of South Asia. This also alludes to the support it offers to proxies in the region.
Pakistan’s consumer price index hits its highest rate in 50 years with food, beverage, and transportation prices up by over 45%.
Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi Criticizes Global Governance of institutions for failing to address the world’s biggest challenges.
Police crackdown on child marriage leads to arrests in India’s Assam, leaving families torn apart and struggling to cope.
In addition to the local factors that have contributed to the emergence of various terrorist groups in Pakistan, the evidence of foreign influence, particularly from India and Iran, is too substantial to be dismissed.
The ongoing search for Amritpal Singh and recent communal violence against Muslims provoke a broader discussion about the role of religion in contemporary Indian politics and the extent to which it has fueled separatism in the country.
China pulled off a diplomatic victory with the historic reconciliation between Saudi Arabia and Iran, undermining US geopolitical dominance over the region and fostering regional cooperation through dialogue and diplomacy.
Despite Pakistan’s myriad issues, which are more pressing now than ever before, China remains steadfast in its diplomatic guarantees to the country and the grand ambitions that supposedly inspire them.
Since the dawn of humanity, politicians have sought recognition for themselves and their political ambitions. Tyrants have routinely tried to manipulate, alter, and exploit history so as to advance their political agendas. This is precisely what India is doing today.
Given that Saudi Arabia and Iran have agreed to fully resume diplomatic relations within the next two months, there is an opportunity for Pakistan to revitalize its Middle Eastern policy.
Water wars loom: Iran and Afghanistan\’s border clashes expose the dire consequences of neglecting water disputes. The implications of these clashes are far-reaching, impacting regional stability and peace.
The Islamic Emirate of Afghanistan does not seem to make any bargains on girls’ education with the international community. There is more to the ban whose end is nowhere in sight.
According to a recent report by World Food Programme, Pakistan and Afghanistan are identified as high-risk \’hunger hotspots\’ due to extreme droughts triggered by climate change.
Unveiling India’s terrorism mantra: is it marked by oblivion or obsession? The recent Biden-Modi Joint Statement raises questions about a deliberate oversight, as both countries seemingly maintained a ‘deliberate oblivion’ while also displaying an obsession with Pakistan.
The UNSC Monitoring Team’s 32nd report underlines that the IEA\’s support for the TTP grows with each passing year, as do its capabilities and capacity.
Silenced Struggles, Shattered Dreams: Kashmir\’s Unheard Cry in the Shadows of \’Naya Kashmir.\’ A stark look at the aftermath of Article 370\’s revocation and the unseen scars on the valley.
The plight of Kashmir requires a nuanced perspective. Navigating international concerns, India\’s ambitions, and Pakistan\’s strategy is essential to ensure the Kashmiri people\’s struggle for self-determination remains alive.
South Asia Times (SAT) hosted its debut webinar to discuss the themes of regional connectivity and maritime security that have far-reaching implications for South Asia and beyond. Experts from Pakistan, Afghanistan and Iran participated in the discussion.
A new partnership is growing in the South Asian region. China is extending its hand to the Islamic Emirate of Afghanistan, on principles of respecting sovereignty & non-interference in internal matters.
![September 6th, a day for introspection! [Image via SAT Creatives]](https://southasiatimes.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/09/September-6th-300x300.webp)
Beyond the displays of military prowess, September 6th is a day for introspection—a time to acknowledge that while external threats are palpable, the gravest danger often festers within our borders.
Pakistan’s decision to send back illegal Afghans back to their country only reflects the country’s own economic and security crisis.
Post-9/11, the world changed drastically with the rise of surveillance states, evolving power dynamics, and ongoing conflicts in Muslim-majority nations. Explore the lasting impact and challenges for nations like the United States, China, Saudi Arabia, Pakistan, and Afghanistan in the complex geopolitical landscape.
Amid regional geopolitics, Pakistan\’s choices are pivotal, as Afghanistan explores alternate trade routes, with Iran a potential option.
Are global financial systems inadvertently supporting a double standard in accountability? As the FATF\’s scrutiny of India looms, this piece navigates the multifaceted dimensions of the accountability debate highlighting the implications for global financial regulations and human rights concerns.
Pakistan’s repatriation initiative sparks debate with Afghanistan, revealing deeper motives for security and stability.
In the aftermath of the October 7th incident that prompted a significant Israeli military intervention in Gaza, the bipartisan approval of HIFPA (H.R. 340) on November 1st carries weighty implications.
Ambassador Naghmana Hashmi discussed the diplomatic landscape during 1971 and how did Pakistan navigate its international relations to address the crisis and what lessons can be drawn for contemporary political challenges.
Sectarianism is so deep-rooted in our society that even the state deems it ‘normal’ and does not react unless extremist manifestations of the phenomenon start turning ugly. The state’s typical response entails the ‘concealment and appeasement’ approach, which was evident from its dealing with the recent upsurge in sectarian tensions in the country.
Pakistan wanted an ally on its west border that can oppose India and anti-Pakistan elements. Afghan Taliban being the ideologically driven faction emerged as indirectly favoring Pakistan. Though most of the Taliban are ethnic Pashtun, their ethnicity has never taken over their ideological identity, so in both respects, the Taliban were less detrimental to Pakistan’s security challenges.
The recent wave of Saffron Vigilantism becomes a burning issue, as Muslims and Hindu Extremists face-off over Hijab Row. The largest ‘Democracy’ is witnessing an ever-growing religious intolerance against the Muslims under the Modi Regime.
If the individuals and nations are crammed by disinformation, it will affect public perception and policy. In 2003, the same propaganda, warmongering and false/misled information by U.S. officials led to the invasion of Iraq, precisely on the claims of WMDs.
![Muslim female students wearing hijabs are denied entry to classrooms in Udupi, reflecting rights violations in India's Karnataka [Image Credits: AP]](https://southasiatimes.org/wp-content/uploads/2022/02/202202asia_india_udupi_hijab-300x300.webp)
Female Muslim students barred from entering their classrooms for wearing a hijab walk outside their college in Udupi, Karnataka, India, violating their basic right.
As the international community has long been concerned over nuclear technology and nuclear missiles falling into the hands of rogue elements – Isn\’t this specific incident of India\’s accidental missile firing into Pakistan indicate rogue-actors-like handling of the weapon system by a nuclear state?
India\’s BJP turns out victorious in Uttar Pradesh\’s state elections 2022. What are the key take-aways from this victory? How does it set the tone for the upcoming general elections in India? How far and in what ways India\’s \’democracy\’ has changed?
War is a social institution that evolves along with changes in societies, political entities, and technologies. If a nation is to maintain its security, it must look beyond the war on terror and prepare for the ascension of 5GW which has confronted many nations of the world, including Pakistan with an evolving strategic paradigm. It is a moment of now or never!
The world is blatantly ignoring Afghanistan\’s intensifying humanitarian crisis. While Afghanistan\’s neighbors are keen on extending every possible support to the Afghan people, the sanctions and unjust freezing of Afghan assets by the US and the West are responsible for the worsening situation in Afghanistan.
The suspected-dead Al Qaeda’s second-in-command after Osama Bin Laden, Ayman Al Zawahiri, resurfaced after months in a video message on Tuesday, denouncing India’s ban on
Russia-Ukraine crisis has fully exposed the penetrability of Cold War mentality in the consciousness of the US and the West. Perceiving China as a close ally of Russia, the US has directed its venom and blame game at China. This attitude is counter-productive for the peace the US and the West desire in Ukraine.
Iqbal was a philosopher who focused both on the individual and the collective/nation. But the qualities Iqbal ascribed to that ideal man were also transferrable and recommended on a collective and national level.
The question of responsibility will surface time and again until a humanitarian and security catastrophe keeps haunting Afghanistan and the region – who is responsible for Afghanistan’s collapse?
From every pinch of history to present day challenges, Pakistan Day calls for revisiting and re-establishing the ideologues and visions that guided the founding fathers to its demand and creation. March 23rd is a resolve to stand by those commitments and nurture them each day.
What started as a hashtag in the Arab World condemning blasphemous remarks of two of India’s BJP’s members turned into official denouncing of the
The detailed report of the Special Inspector General for Afghanistan Reconstruction (SIGAR) on the “Lessons Learned” pinpoints and analyzes in depth the failures and
In a recent follow-up meeting of the Pakistan-Afghanistan Joint Chamber of Commerce and Industry (PAJCCI) led by Special Assistant to Prime Minister, Mohammad Sadiq, all
Peace negotiations between Pakistan and TTP are not a first-time-happening. But, what is unique about the latest round of peace talks? What is the possibility of success? What are the possible gains and anticipated losses if a settlement is to be concluded?
Taliban-Qatar security cooperation – the deal could have been sealed with any other country, but the Taliban opted for Qatar, the country with whom the Taliban had historical relations, and also enjoy a neutral status while being the United States front-state to deal with the Taliban – signals Taliban’s pragmatism on the foreign policy front.
In contrast to its hawkish foreign policy in the 1990s which earned the Taliban the ire of the International community, this time, they sound more dovish in their foreign policy approach which is well illustrated in the organization’s dealing with major powers and with those neighboring countries with whom the Taliban were at odds in the 1990s.
Given the precarious situation in Afghanistan, the elimination of such a high-profile figure in the wake of the US drone strike raised an important question about the near future of the conflict-ridden country: What the strike has in its store for Afghanistan?
Zawahiri\’s death is likely to mark the beginning of a new and potentially final chapter in al-Qaeda’s history, which began in Afghanistan in the late 1980s. However, his death does not lessen the broader threat posed by Al-Qaeda-affiliated groups operating outside of the United States.
Since the revocation of article 370 which stripped the state of Jammu and Kashmir of its unique status back in 2019, it is not only the property or land from which Muslims of the region were denied in the last three years, as attempts were also made to strip them of their religious beliefs.
In Modi\’s India, the religious extremists and ultra-nationalists are using the media as a tool of propaganda to justify their unjustifiable atrocities and violence against Muslims and other minorities in India.
The legacy of the Pak-Afghan region is one of conflicts and ties between the two countries oscillating between fellowship and distrust. As the two tread the path to greater stability, the time for laying the foundations of a durable union is evading fast.
The Taliban regime\’s vagueness on the subject of reopening girls\’ high schools despite repeated promises reflects poorly on their image as an evolved group. The ongoing dilemma may very well be a watershed moment in their legitimacy and viability as rulers of post-war Afghanistan.
While Pakistan has an ample sum of troubles to deal with, here is a case for why it should securitize disinformation. In hybrid and 5th generation warfare, cyberspace and disinformation campaigns are extremely lethal weapons used by enemy states. Hence, counter mechanisms must be a top priority.
Despite ideological fissures between a deeply Islamophobic polity of India and the ‘Islamic Emirate’ of Afghanistan, as well as the specter of a troubled past, signs of rapprochement between the two are on the horizon. But at what cost?
As 2500 Afghan students await Indian visas, it is crucial to ask whether transnational relations are relatively stronger for some communities than others, and perhaps if doubts can be cast after all on India\’s feelings for Afghans.
![Afghan refugees arrive at the Torkham border crossing in Pakistan to cross over into Afghanistan on November 2, 2023 [Image via Al Jazeera]](https://southasiatimes.org/wp-content/uploads/2022/11/Afghan-refugees-arriving-at-the-Torkham-Border-crossing-1699011483-300x300.webp)
Every day hundreds and thousands of people cross the borders in pursuit of better economic opportunities and living conditions, perhaps sometimes only for the sake of survival. However, the level of brutality that they have to go through is insane. Such is the case of Afghan refugee.
The poetry of Allama Iqbal evokes parallels between the ordeals of the past and the anxieties of the present. As Muslims in the region, particularly in Pakistan, reawaken hopes for the future, it is perhaps wise to seek inspiration from where their ancestors first discovered it.
Despite a cross-border movement numbering thousands each day, Afghans have been subject to various procedural hassles upon their arrival in Pakistan. Effective regulation is urgently necessary to preserve the symbiotic relationship between the two nations.
Winter has arrived and health experts are warning that a new surge of COVID-19 infection is looming, particularly in the United States and Europe, where COVID-19 cases are already high enough.
If the attack on the Pakistani embassy in Kabul is any indication, there is no other option for the leadership in the two countries than to adopt a people-centric approach to prevent the region\’s descent into chaos.
The buildup to the FIFA World Cup 2022 and the contentious discussions over whether or not Qatar was eligible to host the event has only exposed in stark detail what can best be characterized as western hypocrisy.
The first-ever Islamabad Security Dialogue (ISD) was held in Islamabad on March 17-18, 2021, under the National Security Division of the Government of Pakistan, in
Enforced disappearances persist throughout South Asia despite international prohibition and law enforcement.
Labelled as one of the worst cases of data breaches, Mobikwik refuses to claim the charges of the leaked data of its 9.9 crore users.
Afghanistan is considered the central point of attention when it comes to South Asian geopolitics. Particularly since the last one year, Afghanistan has caught a lot of international attention.
With the third wave of COVID in full swing, it causing more and more damage to the economies of the world. The dollar is plunging.
Pakistan is blessed with all the riches of the world. Although, the past exploitation in the colonial era marked a stamp of inefficiency and incompetence
India’s Prime Minister Modi addressed his people to inform them about his government’s domestic and international accomplishments. This month’s message coincided with Modi’s seventh challenging
Background China’s rise as a large and emerging power needs peace and sustenance in its neighbourhood. The ongoing instability and uncertainty in Afghanistan will have
Trilateral Meetings of Foreign Ministers Foreign Ministers from Afghanistan, Pakistan and China will hold a virtual trilateral meeting on Thursday. The purpose of the meeting
South Asian countries attain diversities and similarities in their cultural, economic, and political patterns. However, their relations with China have developed differently which shows the distinct regional patterns of international relations.
The context to this agreement provided a cogent look into the chain of events; that resulted in the signing of this deal in the serene mountains of Himachal Pradesh.
Failed withdrawal: Afghanistan in turmoil, economy ruined, society unstable, security lacking, infrastructure insufficient.
This article argues that the internal workings of Muslim Rashtriya Manch (MRM) indicate that it remains in direct control of senior RSS functionary Indresh Kumar.
In between the years of fighting, waging war, terrorizing, forcing, and manipulating ideologies; one tends to dismiss all the lives of innocent, women, children and men. That have buried not only their loved ones but also their liberation and right to life; in the ‘Graveyard of Empires’.
On 6th September 2021, the Taliban claimed to take over the Panjshir in Afghanistan. Similar to their narrative which has stayed persistent since the fall of the Kabul Government, the Taliban have assured security to the locals of Panjshir and that they too will be included in the upcoming new Afghanistan Government.
It is nearly three weeks since the Taliban took over Kabul. Since then, there is a lot of discussion taking place at the global policy circles and humanitarian organizations;
The Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) was established, in June 2001; as a multilateral association to ensure security and maintain stability across the vast Eurasian region. It was to join forces to counteract emerging challenges and threats.
![Sherman from United States met with Pakistan's Foreign Minister Qureshi in Islamabad [Image by Pakistan Ministry of Foreign Affairs via AP].](https://southasiatimes.org/wp-content/uploads/2021/10/AP21281255820748-300x300.webp)
US Deputy Secretary of State visit to South Asia, particularly regarding Afghanistan, marks a shift towards civilian diplomatic engagement.
Irresponsible US exit led to enduring crisis inside Afghanistan: security vacuum, economic woes, and IS threat.
Since October 27th, 1947, Kashmir’s illegal occupation persists. Delhi’s August 5th, 2019 move aims for demographic change.
Islam to Iqbal was a philosophical ethos, more than a mere religion confined to the individual sphere. Thus, he spoke both in terms of the individual and the collective – framed in the concept of the Ummah.
India with its leverage lost in Afghanistan is reportedly considering reopening its embassy in Kabul. This comes at a time when India is seeking its role in Afghanistan; either through ‘Asia-Pacific’ group – 18th Russia-India-China (RIC) foreign ministers’ meeting, or through United States-led initiatives, such as Quad.
“Peace cannot be kept by force; it can only be achieved by understanding.” ~Albert Einstein
The clash between India and China last week was the worst in the last 45 years. India’s economic realities of a war with China could lead to devastating economic repercussions for both countries.
An analysis of what the Pakistan Budget 2020-21 and the Pakistani Economy looks like for the financial year, as per our Economic team member
There are two important components of an economic response to this pandemic outbreak. The first is building infrastructures like hospital facilities and quarantine facilities, preparing the staff to deal with the SOPs and procuring equipment. The second component is to adopt policies that help mitigate the economic repercussions of social distancing.
The extension of the lockdown by the government has severe repercussions for the economy as it would deteriorate India’s GDP forecast for FY2020, to a
National Assembly Passes Two FATF Related Bills Pakistan government on Wednesday passed two bills related to Financial Action Task Force (FATF) through the National Assembly.
Security and Diplomacy The Afghan government is resisting freeing the final batch of 5,000 prisoners whose release was demanded by the Taliban as a condition
Srilanka, under China’s assistance, is working towards making the port city Colombo a financial hub. The port city of Colombo, a special economic zone is