JI

# The Buzz

#TheBuzz

A new Sharif in town

omar r quraishi

Journalist

@omar_quraishi

Gen Sharif was 3rd on the seniority list and the Pak media didn’t really think he would be picked – shows unpredictability of selection

Farrukh Khan Pitafi

TV Anchor

@FarrukhKPitafi

Well congrats Lt Gen Raheel Sharif. To be honest I was hoping to see Gen Haroon as the next chief. But as I said PM’s prerogative!

Feisal H. Naqvi

Lawyer

@laalshah

Old joke abt “iss mulk mein sirf do sharif, Babra Sharif aur Nawaz Sharif” will now need to be revised

Talat Aslam

Editor, The News

@titojourno

Has anyone ever described an incoming COAS as ‘thoroughly unprofessional and politically ambitious’ at the time of his appointment?

Sanam Taseer

Daughter of Salman Taseer

@SanamTaseer

Junior General made COA. that usually turns out really well.

Syed Talat Hussain

Anchor, Saach TV

@TalatHussain12

PM Sharif handpicks Gen Sharif, learns nothing from past experience.

Wajahat S. Khan

Correspondent, NBC News

@WajSKhan

COAS-select Raheel Sharif also has the rare & coveted legacy angle covered as the brother of Nishan-e-Haider Shabbir Sharif Shaheed

Nusrat Javeed

Columnist & TV Anchor

@javeednusrat

Raheel Sharif’s appointment is definitely a good news. A thorough soldier with no interest in things political.

Rauf Klasra

Ediotr, Dunya TV

@KlasraRauf

@haroonsardar NS lucky. No Leo to stop him this time. COAS RS is Libra and libra r decent, witty, intelligent, lucky but lack decision making

Asad Umar

Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaaf (PTI)

@Asad_Umar

The new COAS is the brother of a great son of pakistan. Hope he can serve the nation well as a professional army chief

Mehreen Zahra-Malik

Pakistan Correspondent, Reuters

@mehreenzahra

In the end, it wasn’t about seniority after all. “Raheel Sharif chosen as new Pakistan army chief – govt official

Pervez Musharraf

Former President of Pakistan

@P_Musharraf

I congratulate General Raheel Sharif on his promotion as the new Chief of the Army Staff.

PM Nawaz Sharif appoints Raheel Sharif new Army Chief

#TheBuzz

Airport Assault

Quatrina Hosain

Anchor, Abb Tak

@QuatrinaHosain

Is Karachi attack prelude to another round of incessant terror attacks nationwide? Eerie lull these past few weeks indicative of new phase.

Azhar Abbas

Journalist

@AzharAbbas3

TTP spokesman Shahidullah Shahid claims responsibility of Khi airport attack, says they have now re-launched attacks after failure of talks.

Mosharraf Zaidi

Columnist

@mosharrafzaidi

I am on PK 319. We were scheduled to land at midnight in Karachi. Plane landed at Nawabshah. All well here. Prayers for Karachi airport.

Adil Najam

Professor, International Relations

@AdilNajam

‪#‎TaftanMassacre and ‪#‎KarachiAirport: Can we please start fighting the war that is not ours but keeps taking ours from us?

Omar Quraishi

Editor, Express Tribune

@omar_quraishi

The image of terrorists armed with RPGs running across the tarmac of Karachi airport, taking positions near the runway, damage is done.

Rameeza Nizami

Reporter, The Nation

@RameezaNizami

Only PTV sounding confident right now. Might be the inspirational background music. Everyone else tired, confused, resigned to the chaos.

Zahid Hussain

Journalist

@hidhussain

Terrorists once again managed to target high security zone; exposes ineptness of you security and intelligence agencies.

Ali Dayan

Human Rights Activist

@AliDayan

v

Raza Rumi

Columnist

@Razarumi

Terrorists could have wreaked more havoc and their plans to hijack and/or destroy planes were foiled. Credit where it’s due. #Pakistan

Ejaz Haider

Anchor, Capital TV

@ejazhaider

#Finale: X no of terrorists killed; Y no of security personnel felled; Z no of aircraft damaged. Spectacle created. Mission accomplished.

Reaction to the TTP attack on Karachi International Airport

#TheBuzz

Breaking the Ice: Nawaz Heads to India

Imtiaz Gul

Security Analyst

@vogul1960

Attending Modi oath taking marks a break from, and defeat of, cold-war era mindset that ails Pakistan. Hopefully we stay the course.

Munawar Bhatti

Former Ambassador to Brussels

@MunawarsBhatti

BJP reaction to PM Nawaz Sharif visit terming it as the “beginning of a new relationship” bodes well for Pak-India relations #NS #Modi

Farooq Tariq

Awami Workers Party (AWP)

@Farooqtaqriq3

An extreme right wing wave brought Modi to power, no good news for Indian minorities. PM Nawaz’s visit will not make any fundamental difference.

Ahsan Iqbal

Minister, Planning & Development

@betterpakistan

PM Sharif’s decision to go to India for opening peace door in South Asia is being appreciated all over the world.

Shireen Mazari

Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaaf (PTI)

@ShireenMazari1

PM’s visit to Modi inaugural not an issue, but he also has a 1-on-1 meeting which would have been good had PMLN worked out a cohesive India policy!

Mushahid Hussain

Pakistan Muslim League (PML-Q)

@Mushahid

Rather than being hostage to Islamophobic RSS, Modi needs to learn from BJP’s PM Vajpayee, who had Nixonian vision in outreach to neighbours.

Jan Achakzai

Jamiat Ulema Islam (JUI-F)

@Jan_Achakzai

We hail NS to take up PM-designate Modi’s invite. He should urge India come out of its post-Mumbai diplomatic hangover.

Afrasiab Khattak

Awami National Party (ANP)

@a_siab

PM Nawaz Sharif has done the right thing by accepting Modi’s invitation. Both countries can’t afford perpetual confrontation.

Maryam N. Sharif

Pakistan Muslim League (PML-N)

@MaryamNSharif

I read this out to PM 🙂 “@sherryrehman: PM Sharif should seriously consider accepting the Modi invite to SAARC leaders for his oath taking…

Sherry Rehman

President, Jinnah Institute

@sherryrehman

PM Sharif’s decision to attend the Modi inauguration is a very good one. Now let’s not burden this event with a rush of expectations just yet.

Reaction of PM Sharif's decision to go to Delhi

#TheBuzz

Breakthrough in Iran, P5+1 Geneva negotiations

Ayesha Aijaz

Lawyer

@Ayesha Aijaz

So Iran has given up the bomb and boosted its economy potentially by $7 Billion. Wise. Lesson for "ghairatmand" Pakistanis.

Farrukh Pitafi

TV Anchor

@Farrukh Pitafi

Okay take a deep breath, step back and think what the new development really means. Think of its impact on us. I implore u think things through.

Adil Najam

Professor of International Relations

@Adil Najam

High hopes for #Iran #Nuclear deal. Full text, of what agreed: http://bit.ly/17RV9Ib Good for world; good for region.

Amir Mateen

Reporter, The News

@Amir Mateen

With US-Iran breakthrough, one wonders Nawaz/Imran understand the moments events taking placearound us-let alone charter us the right way.

Marvi Sirmed

Journalist

@Marvi Sirmed

Even Iran became Amreekan agent? Iran too is sold out for $$$$$ like those in Pakistan who are against peace deal with innocent Taliban.

Hasan Zaidi

Filmmaker & Journalist

@Hasan Zaidi

Israel is not bound by this agreement,"says Netanyahu about int'l agreementover Iran nuclear prog. Is he foaming at mouth too? #Rabid

Mosharraf Zaidi

Columnist

@Mosharraf Zaidi

Public diplomacy since this summer far and away, better than anything in memory, at least since Mumbai 08.

Omar Waraich

Journalist

@Omar Waraich

Nuclear deal is good news for #Iran, but Iranians worry that Congress may resist a permanent agreement.

Nasim Zehra

Anchor, Capital TV

@Nasim Zehra

Pakistan is well-placed on the pipeline prog; also has good relations with Iran-KSA and US, so potentially its win-win for PK.

Shireen Mazari

Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaaf (PTI)

@Shireen Mazari

Iran nuclear agreement with P5+1! By believing in itself & its cause, Iran compelled US to come down from war threats 2 dialogue & agreement

Breakthrough in Iran, P5+ 1 Geneva negotiations

#TheBuzz

Doing More in Afghanistan

Syed Talat Hussain

Journalist and Commentator

@TalatHussain12

Trump has okayed possible ‘inland attacks’ in case Pakistan doesnt dismantle alleged Haqqani set-up, claim diplomatic sources.

Bushra Gohar

Politician, ANP

@BushraGohar

Will the Parliament continue to remain a silent spectator? We have lost precious lives due to flawed foreign & security policies.

Abdul Basit

Former Ambassador

@abasitpak1

US is either clueless or deliberately complicating matters in Afghanistan..

Nasim Zehra

Journalist and Commentator

@NasimZehra

Trump’s shoutOut 2 Delhi 4 coop in Afghanistan/globally: let’s together ward off growing Rusia-China influence-ur kiling Kashmiris is kosher

Imtiaz Gul

Policy Analyst

@vogul1960

Trump speech=old wine in new flashy bottle=precipitating existing geo-political divisions (Indo-US-Afgh) vs Pak-Sino-Russia= more escalation

Asad Umar

Member of National Assembly, PTI

@Asad_Umar

There is no solution if afghanistan without bringing all segments of afghanistan onboard and addressing legitimate concerns of Pakistan

Mosharraf Zaidi

Columnist

@mosharrafzaidi

To date, US taxpayers have put over $714 billion in Afghanistan. Pakistan total GDP is about $300 billion. But yeah. All Pakistan’s fault.

Mushahid Husain

Senator, PML-Q

@Mushahid

New US South Asian & Afghanistan strategy’ is confusing, convoluted & clueless: is purpose to take on the Taliban or talk to the Taliban?

Ali Dayan Hasan

Human Rights Campaigner

@AliDayan

#India stabilizing #Afghanistan is about as likely as Pakistan liberating Kashmir or Trump emerging as a civil rights icon. Great plan!

Sherry Rehman

President, Jinnah Institute

@sherryrehman

I’m sorry, but others need to “do more ” in Afghanistan, not Pakistan. Guess we were ok as long as the supply lines were needed. Moving on

Reactions of President Trump's announcement of US policy towards Afghanistan and South Asia

#TheBuzz

Endangered Census

Jan Achakzai

Journalist

@Jan_Achakzai

#LahoreBlast: precious lives lost. May Allah bless martyrs. Terrorism is a menace 2 be fought generationally w-out complacency.

Syed Talat Hussain

Journalist

@TalatHussain12

#Lahore Terror strikes again. More lives lost. Targeting census team only shows the aim of terror is to disrupt national projects.

Reham Khan

Journalist

@RehamKhan1

Deeply disturbing targeting of the only metropolis considered to be safe. Must defeat evil designs by staying united #LahoreBlast

Farrukh K. Pitafi

TV Anchor

@FarrukhKPitafi

Heartfelt condolences to the families of the victims. It is time to crush terrorism, totally & absolutely.

M. Jibran Nasir

Social Activist

@MJibranNasir

A day after IG Punjab claimed that Punjab has been cleansed of all terror outfits & hideouts precious lives are lost in Lahore to terrorism

Gharidah Farooqi

Anchor, Express News

@GFarooqi

It’s an open secret, suburbs of Lhr incl Bedian Rd been the activities hub of banned outfits since ages. Sleeper cells still working.

Shireen Mazari

Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI)

@ShireenMazari1

Lahore sees another terror attack – this time against census team on Bedian road. Sad. Our urban centres remain vulnerable to terrorists.

AVM (r) Shahid Latif

Security and Defense Analyst

@AMShahidLatif

Salutes to soldiers who got martyrdom in the line of duty. Terrorism won’t end till #RaddUlFasaad doesn’t reach South Punjab.

Sherry Rehman

President, Jinnah Institute

@sherryrehman

Thoughts and prayers for brave #LahoreBlast victims. Hope more tragedy is not needed for denialism about violent extremism to end.

Reactions to the suicide blast in Lahore Targetting Census team on 25/04/2017

#TheBuzz

HakeemUllah Mehsud Dead

Mosharraf Zaidi

Columnist

@Mosharraf Zaidi

Drone-lovers having field day. But we don't HAVE to quietly endure. Glad Mehsud dead but drones DO kill innocent people & they ARE illegal.

Imtiaz Gul

Security Analyst

@Imtiaz Gul

Hakimullah didn't spare even blind-folded 70 year old Col Imam, calling him a US agent before himself shooting him dead in 2011. Machoman!

Zahid Hussain

Journalist

@Zahid Hussain

I have not seen Imran Khan so angry and upset when the TTP was killing innocent people as he is now on the death of Hakimullah.

Ejaz Haider

Anchor, Capital TV

@Ejaz Haider

Ch N wants to review relations with the US; fine. Perhaps he should ask Sartaj Aziz who last Tuesday gave an ok report on US-Pak relations.

Mohammad Malick

Group Editor, Dunya Newsty

@Mohammad Malick

I hate drones but that does not mean I love terrorists. There's more to life than either or.

Rehman Malik

Former Interior Minister

@Rehman Malik

Dear all, pl remember my statement on dialogue with Taliban that hostile/anti Pak elements will not allow this to happen. Nation needs unity.

Umar Cheema

Investigative Journalist, The News

@Umar Cheema

Govt is playing smart: Running with the hare and hunting with the hound (on Hakimullah's killing).

Nasim Zehra

Anchor, Capital TV

@Nasim Zehra

Hakeemullah Mehsud was a killer, a terrorist & v seem to be mourning his death. God Bless us and save us from ourselves

Talat Aslam

Senior Editor, The News

@Talat Aslam

The perils of a weekly: The News on Sunday special report on drones went to press before Hakimullah's killing. Still very pertinent though

Quatrina Hosain

Anchor, AB Tuk

@Quatrina Hosain

No tears shed for HuM but wish talks had been given chance to succeed or fail. Doubt is a terrible thing in times of war.

Reaction to the drone attack that killed Hakeemullah Mehsud

#TheBuzz

IMF Bailout

Madiha Afzal

Former Member of Parliament

@MadihaAfzal

Officials in Islamabad said approaching the IMF became inevitable when Saudi Arabia turned down a request to delay payments for oil imports last week.

Syed Ali Raza Abidi

Central Vice President, ANP

@abidifactor

Pakistan‘s policies were doing just fine until 25/07/18, even during the caretaker setup. But as soon as youthiyas took over they created panic and uncertainty which has forced them to take unpopular steps. If IMF is now the only option why was PTI claiming they won’t go for it?

Omar R Quraishi

Journalist

@omar_quraishi

The stock market fell over 7% in less than a week – mainly due to the Government’s indecision over the IMF bailout Many Insafians are justifying this loss of billions in market capitalization (& losses for those investing in stocks) by saying it was invested by the corrupt…

Hammad Azhar

Minister of State for Revenue, Government of Pakistan

@Hammad_Azhar

The challenge for the #PTI govt is to use the space offered by the bailout to undertake much delayed structural reforms so that we end the spiral of this debt dependancy.

Mushahid Hussain

Senator

@Mushahid

‘Naya Pakistan’ 2 U-turns in succession: PTI regime talked of ‘breaking the begging bowl’, but now is rushing to get IMF bailout ; IG Police Punjab removed on eve of bye-elections, because incumbent was ‘too independent’/resisted political pressure. Goodbye to good governance!

Miftah Ismail

Former Federal Minister of Finance

@MiftahIsmail

2)Going to IMF was only wrong in Purana Pakistan and showed a lack of strategy and imagination. In Naya Pakistan it is kosher.

Nasim Zehra

Journalist & Author

@NasimZehra

Govt goes to the IMF. Govt increases water charges. Govt’s increases gas prices.Govt taken steps that have led to inflation. StockMarket tumbled down by 1300 points. Management of the economy is a colossal complex & sober task so tall claims & opposition-mode by govt unwarranted.

Khurram Husain

Business Editor at Dawn newspaper

@KhurramHusain

Meanwhile foreign exchange reserves of the State Bank drop by $627 million between Sept 19 and 28 (latest data just released). I don’t recall the last time I saw a drop this steep. Anyone care for a policy direction soon? Or are we still at gnashing our teeth at each other?

Haris Gazdar

Senior Researcher, Collective for Social Science Research

@HarisGazdar

Going to the IMF is not Imran Khan’s ‘fault’. Most sensible observers could have predicted this even 3 years ago when the PML-N’s narrative about CPEC led growth was in full swing. The ‘fault’ is not letting PML-N pay the political price of its disastrous economic management!

Abid Qaiyum Suleri

Executive Director SDPI

@Abidsuleri

To me, it ll be much easier 4 GOP to achieve macro-fiscal stability through an IMF loan, without neglecting the alternative sources of funding & taking care of social protection.

Twitter reactions to the government's decision to seek an IMF bailout

#TheBuzz

India’s Saffron Sweep

Ahmer Naqvi

Analyst

@karachikhatmal

Tempted to say goodbye to the idea of a syncretic South Asia this afternoon. Of course, it has resisted far worse, but still.

Mehreen Zahra Malik

TV Anchor

@Mehreenzahra

Also, never again will an Indian treat his chaiwala badly. I’m going to go give mine a hug. #IndiaDecides2014 #Modi

Hasan Zaidi

Columnist

@hyzaidi

The unspoken anxiety in Pak about Indian Hindutva landslide is whether we’ll understand even half of what’s being said there now. #Sanskriti

Wajahat S Khan

Correspondent, NBC News

@WajSKhan

Civ-mil tensions here. Hyper nationalist government there. A brand new president on the other side. I’m waiting for a nasty little war.

Moeed Pirzada

TV Anchor

@MoeedNj

#PM Nawaz did an excellent decision (perhaps the first such of his Reign of Errors) by quickly calling Narendra Modi & congratulating him!

Marvi Sirmed

Journalist

@marvisirmed

Congratulations India, congratulations Mr. Modi. We in Pakistan hope the best for the region, peace & you MT @narendramodi: India has won!

Omar R. Quraishi

Editor, Express Tribune

@omar_qursaishi

With a right-wing prime minister who should be able to contain India’s hawks & establishment, will Modi be able to strike peace with Pak?

Raza Rumi

Columnist

@Razarumi

So the rise and fall of @AamAadmiParty in #Delhi will be a subject of endless debates 🙂 Not a single seat after that teacup #Revolution

Mosharraf Zaidi

Development Consultant

@mosharrafzaidi

Pakistanis should not be self-conscious in assessing what a Modi-led India may mean. We should also be seeking to understand this India.

Ayaz Amir

Columnist

@AyyazAmir

A statesman’s rhetoric is always different than that in election campaign. #Modi will have to step forward for peace in the region.

Reaction to the BJP's landslide victory

#TheBuzz

Indian Aggression

Mosharraf Zaidi‏

Policy Analyst

@mosharrafzaidi

Just to be clear: #Balakot is not in Azad Kashmir. If Indian Air Force planes dropped payload in Balakot, they crossed across the LOC, and then across the entirety of Azad Kashmir, and then into Khyber Pakhtukhwa. India didn’t “cross the LOC”. It has attacked Pakistan.

Asma Shirazi‏

Journalist

@asmashirazi

Indian jets violated our boundary, intruded inside Pakistan, came close to Balkot, KPK, crossing over Kashmir. My simple question is Why did we let them go?

Asad Hashim

Journalist

@AsadHashim

Local journalists tell @AJEnglish that location of Indian payload drop appears to be Jaba, an uninhabited forest area in Mansehra district located about 10km from border with Pakistan-administered Kashmir and 60km from LoC.

Moeed Pirzada

TV Anchor

@MoeedNj

Crucial thing to determine the nature of this incursion is if Indian Mirage planes stayed inside Pakistani territory for 3-4 minutes, as it looks from ISPR statement or for 21 minutes as Indian media claim. ISPR should share their trajectory with media to clarify this confusion

Khurram Dastigr Khan

Former Minister for Foreign Affairs

@kdastgirkhan

“Pak should strive diplomatically to get revoked OIC invitation to India~Or Pak should boycott the meeting. The “I” in OIC stands for Islamic. How can a country guilty of savage repression of IO Kashmiri Muslims be guest of honour?” ~Spoke in National Assembly on Indian incursion

Hamid Mir

TV Anchor

@HamidMirPAK

Indian Foreign Secretary never clarified which Balakot was attacked?In KPK or AJK?He never took any questions from media after reading a statement because he was aware media will ask for evidence

Dr. Yasmin Rashid

Provincial Minister For Primary & Secondary Healthcare

@Dr_YasminRashid

The only thing that India has dropped with its claimed attack into the sovereign territory of Pakistan, is its farce of being a peaceful neighbour. It may be election year for Modi but to endanger regional peace for vested interest is nothing short of insanity! #PakistanZindabad

Farrukh K. Pitafi

TV Anchor

@FarrukhKPitafi

Intel based strikes take place with some credible intel info. Unless you are attacking trees, you are supposed to know which high value target you are going for. If you know whom did you target you can pray tell so that we can start parading them on live television.

Sherry Rehman

President, Jinnah Institute

@sherryrehman

Make no mistake:in any hour of Indian aggression Pakistan unites to stand by our brave #PakForces .High time the govt woke up to its responsibilities and called a joint session of parliament to send a clear, powerful message to the world:we don’t want war but we r ready for it.

Imtiaz Gul‏

Policy Analyst

@vogul1960

What a claim: 12 fighter aircraft, dropped a mere 1000 kg bombs, and before heading back from #Balakot they also counted 300 dead bodies in the dark of early morning. Quite a stunning script of a Bollywood film

Twitter Reactions to Alleged Indian Air Strikes in Pakistan

#TheBuzz

Iran Deal

Bina Shah

Writer

@BinaShah

Never thought I would see a US-Iran nuclear deal in my lifetime. Repercussions for entire region huge. Fascinating times ahead.

Hasan Zaidi

Filmmaker & Journalist

@hyzaidi

Iran Foreign Minister says a breakthrough has been made in international nuclear talks. Israel in deep mourning.

Farrukh Pitafi

TV Anchor

@FarrukhKPitafi

Should we still not call @JohnKerry a miracle worker? Let’s see how he handles the Saudis & Israel after this development.

Wajahat Ali

Journalist

@WajahatAli

.@BarackObama quoting JFK: “let us never negotiate out of fear but never fear to negotiate” #IranTalks #IranDeal

Nuzhat S. Siddiqi

Writer

@guldaar

Great. Even the #US is talking somewhat pleasantly to #Iran. Will #India and #Pakistan grow up to be like that? (Minus the bombing threats).

Moeed Pirzada

TV Anchor

@MoeedNj

Earthquake in Middle East for Israel & Saudi Arabia: Iran & the US finally struck a deal! Region is turned upside down, Watch my words!!

Raza Rumi

Analyst

@Razarumi

Wow. #history MT @WhiteHouse: “In return for Iran’s actions, international community has agreed to provide Iran w/ relief from certain sanctions”- Obama

Mosharraf Zaidi

Columnist

@mosharrafzaidi

Riyadh is going to need a long shower to wash off the glitter from the Iran/P5+1 party over in Tehran right now.

Talat Aslam

Senior Editor, The News

@titojourno

Is Iran finally coming in from the cold after decades of being a pariah? As a neighbour, Pakistan needs to have a long, hard policy rethink.

Abbas Nasir

Journalist

@abbasnasir59

Pakistan’s new reality: soon a sanctions-free Iran for a neighbour. Hope we are ready.

Iran, US and EU reach historic agreement on key parameters for a nuclear deal

#TheBuzz

Journalists Under Fire

Ejaz Haider

Anchor, Capital TV

@ejazhaider

The attack on @HamidMirGEO is cowardly & condemnable but equally condemnable is the small-minded pathology of media houses & owners.

Nasim Zehra

Anchor, Capital TV

@NasimZehra

Immediate & credible investigation of the deadly attack on Hamid Mir is a must to address all fears/suspicions.

Mosharraf Zaidi

Columnist

@mosharrafzaidi

These attacks are meant to shut down dissent. Long may you live & speak @razarumi @HamidMirGEO and all journos putting it all on the line.

Saima Mohsin

Correspondent, CNN

@SaimaMohsin

“The further a society drifts from truth the more it hates those who speak it” GeorgeOrwell #PressFreedom #Pakistan #JournalismUnderAttack

Babar Sattar

Lawyer

@Babar_Sattar

Had @Razarumi been anything but a journalist-politician/lawyer/doctor/maulvi-the attack would be breaking/front page news across channels/papers.

Adil Najam

Professor, International Relations

@AdilNajam

Saddened by attack on @HamidMirGEO following one on @Razarumi. Stay strong, friends. Your voice being attacked because your voice matters.

Huma Yusuf

Columnist, Dawn

@humayusuf

Media vs. military — this is not what a democratic transition looks like. @HamidMirGEO #JournoSafety

Wasay Jalil

Muttahida Qaumi Movement (MQM)

@WasayJalil

Its shocking news about an attack on @HamidMir Geo & on behalf of QT AltafHussain MQM condemn & demand for an inquiry & praying for his recovery.

Afrasiab Khattak

Awami National Party (ANP)

@a_siab

Murder attack on prominent journalist Hamid Mir is an attempt to silence independent voices. Sophisticated planning raises questions. Condemn.

Maulana Fazal Rahman

Jamiat Ulema Islam (JUI-F)

@Moulanasahib

Shocked of attack on @HamidMirGEO. It is an attack on free speech. I demand protection for media men. @geonews_urdu

Reaction to the targeting of mediapersons by terrorists

#TheBuzz

Kartarpur Corridor

Suhasini Haidar

Diplomatic Affairs Editor, The Hindu

@suhasinih

Totally mixed and confusing messaging by the government on Kartarpur. Easier to say, “We won’t talk, respond, send ministers to Pakistan etc…. Until we will”

Navjot Singh Sidhu

India Politician, Former Cricketer

@sherryontopp

The Kartarpur Spirit can make pilgrims of us all, venturing out on a journey that breaks the barriers of history and opens the borders of the heart and the mind. A journey that our people can walk together towards, a future of shared peace and prosperity for India and Pakistan.

Khawaja M. Asif

Former Minister of Foreign Affairs

@KhawajaMAsif

Opening of Kartarpur corridor is a good gesture for peace in subcontinent & a message of amity for Sikhs.But India is downplaying the event & response is not encouraging..Such initiatives must bring dividends,I am afraid not in this case..

Hamid Mir

Journalist

@HamidMirPAK

Dear madam you said that govt of India will be represented by your two colleagues at Kartarpur sahib but today you said that two Indian ministers are going to Pakistan in their personal capacity anyhow we welcome two Indian ministers in their personal capacity

Hasan Zaidi

Minister of State for Revenue, Government of Pakistan

@hyzaidi

Indian govt increasingly comes across as that petulant kid who wants to play in the street cricket game everyone’s already enjoying but keeps nitpicking about playing conditions and pretending he’s too above it all to care much about.

Shireen Mazari

Federal Minister for Human Rights, Pakistan

@ShireenMazari1

Decision to open Kartarpura corridor esp for Sikh pilgrims from India is a principled position based on simply doing what is right. Not linked to demands 4 reciprocity from India, Pak govt has taken this step bec it is the right thing to do – allow ppl access to their holy places

Asma Shirazi‏

Journalist

@asmashirazi

Historical day today. Stone of love and peace laid down .Much appreciated effort by @ImranKhanPTI and COAS#GeneralBajwa @sherryontopp #Kartarpur. Congratulations #Pakistan #India

Dr. Mohammad Faisal‏

Spokesperson, Ministry of Foreign Affairs Pakistan

@ForeignOfficePk

The journey begins. We move towards the peace which has remained elusive. A huge success for #Pakistan. A dream coming true for the Sikhs #Kartarpur #Islamabad #PakistanKartarpurSpirit

Murtaza Solangi

Journalist

@murtazasolangi

Imran Khan would have made history, had he invited opposition leaders in the #Kartarpur ceremony today but I guess the establishment supported myopic Khan didn’t want to give national ownership to the initiative that has been supported across the board.

Mohammed Hanif

Author & Journalist

@mohammedhanif

Everyone else was talking abt Baba Guru Nanak. Imran Khan is talking about Imran Khan.

Extending an Olive Branch Reactions to Opening of Kartarpur Border by Pakistan for Sikh Community in India

#TheBuzz

Martyr or not

Athar Minallah

Lawyer

@Athar Minallah

I have always been a critic of Musharaf, struggled against his rule when he was strong. But after HM declared Shaheed, what harm in pardon

Jasmeen Manzoor

Anchor, SAMAA TV

@Jasmeen Manzoor

My support is loud and clear to all those shaheed who gave their lives for Pakistan! The real fauj is the Jawan on the post not the general

Khalid Zaheer

Dean, Punjab University

@Khalid Zaheer

Qur'an says "Let not enmity of a nation incline u to be unfair; be fair, that's closest to piety." Our leaders say US enmity makes u Shaheed

Sheryrar Taseer

Son of late Governor Taseer

@Sheryrar Taseer

Hakimulllah Mehsud is as much shaheed as Hitler is a saint, #Pakistan #Taliban

Mohammed Hanif

Novelist

@Mohammed Hanif

Maulana F quotes Maulana A.Kalam Azad to explain his dog problem. Also refers to dogs own by Ashab-e-Kahaf. Think he is a closet dog lover.

Murtaza Solangi

Journalist

@Murtaza Solangi

Munawar Hasan and other Jamaat leaders calling Hakeemullah Mehsud a martyr expose their contempt for the people of Pakistan!

Taha Siddiqui

Journalist

@Taha Siddiqui

Ppl arguing who is a martyr& who isn't, have taken up the role of God, forgetting tht religion talks of judgment day to decide such matters

Marvi Sirmed

Journalist

@Marvi Sirmed

How unfair. Calling a Shaheed an agent? Lahaula wala quwwa @mughalbha: TTP is Funded by RAW CIA Zaid Hamid

Asim Bajwa

Inter-Services Public Relation (ISPR)

@Asim Bajwa

Sacrifices of our shuhada & their families need no endorsement from Munawar Hassan. Such misguided statements deserve no comment

Tahir Ul Qadri

Minhaj-ul-Quran International

@Tahir Ul Qadri

The word 'shaheed" is a blessed title and it is being misused #SaveTheState #Pakistan

Revisiting the martydom debate

#TheBuzz

Modi – Nawaz Meet In Russia

Zahid Hussain

Journalist

@hidhussain

Welcome development. Indian PM Modi accepts invite for first Pakistan visit.

Murtaza Solangi

Journalist

@murtazasolangi

Ultimately Modi and Nawaz both won the toss. Head said de-escalation and the tail said engagement.

Raza Rumi

Columnist

@Razarumi

Official #Pakistan & #India joint statement: Good to see stuff #TrackII parleys recommend to respective governments.

Mosharraf Zaidi

Columnist

@mosharrafzaidi

PM Sharif has taken another large political leap to try to jumpstart regional normalisation. Hope Pakistani hawks will cut him some slack.

Moeed Pirzada

TV Anchor

@MoeedNj

PM Nawaz must follow his Foreign Office instincts in dealing with Modi; Indian Strategists are masters of empty postures of Aman & Shanti…

Adil Najam

Professor, International Relations

@AdilNajam

Lets not hype #NawazModi meeting. Not every meeting is a historic meeting. If it is, it reflects a sad sad history!

Ejaz Haider

Anchor, Capital TV

@ejazhaider

#Ufa joint statement has only one takeaway: Mumbai. everything else is already exists. #VoiceSamples for which there’s no #MLA framework.

Nasim Zehra

Anchor, Channel 24

@nasimzehra

Modi govt takes a U-turn after 1 year of muscle flexing/Pak-bashing, decides to return to dialogue process. NSA talks on terrorism & ‘all issues’

Shireen Mazari

Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI)

@ShireenMazari1

Shameful how PM Sharif once again appeased India on terrorism while ignoring Indian state terrorism in Occupied Kashmir & in Pakistan.

Sherry Rehman

President, Jinnah Institute

@sherryrehman

We welcome Modi to the SAARC Summit, support Sharif in peace moves, but statement should reflect Pakistan’s concerns too. Right now it’s one-sided.

#TheBuzz

No More Do More

Mosharraf Zaidi

Columnist

@mosharrafzaidi

Trump or not, US neither generous, nor fair to Pakistan. Pakistan must stop reminding others about how many people we lost to terror. No one cares. The more urgent question is, do we? 3 years after APS, almost 7 years after Abbotabad – how have we prepared for this day?

Syed Talat Hussain

Journalist and Commentator

@TalatHussain12

National Security Committee meeting to take place today. Underlines how seriously the govt and the Army is taking Trump’s tweet. No individual institutional reaction will suffice. Now it has to be a whole of nation response.

Adil Najam

Professor, International Relations

@AdilNajam

3/Get out of messed up US/PAK relationship now! Don’t drag it out.Don’t wait to be dragged out. 4/Say goodbye to all US aid.Everything. Nothing there is essential. Make accounts of all past aid spending public. 5/Up the fight against terrorism. Earnestly. Relentlessly.

Nasim Zehra

Anchor

@NasimZehra

A self- respecting Pak leadership must announce that it will take no aid, suspend all cooperation with the US and demand an explanation from Washington for this rude and belligerent statement. Anything less would be devoid of dignity and self- respect.

Hamid Mir

Anchor, Geo TV

@HamidMirPAK

Real pain behind @realDonaldTrump tweet against Pakistan may not be Afghanistan but Pakistan’s role on Palestine

Jalil Abbas Jilani

Former Foreign Secretary

@JalilJilani

2) Pakistan provided GLOCS/AIRLOCS facility free of charge to US/NATO forces in Afghanistan. The cost would have run into billions of dollars if charged. The US AID is an investment that the US makes in in its own national interests. USAID Administrator told Congress.

Bilawal Bhutto Zardari

Chairman, Pakistan People’s Party

@BBhuttoZardari

We will eradicate extremism because it’s in our interest not because of what @realDonaldTrump says. We will not allow the #US to scapegoat #Pakistan for its own failures in the region.

Shafqat Mahmood

Member National Assembly, PTI

@Shafqat_Mahmood

The stark fact is that the worlds preeminent military power, the largest military force ever in the history of mankind, has to find a scapegoat for its failures in Afghanistan. The easy choice is Pakistan because we made the mistake of helping US at a massive cost to our people

Afrasiab Khattak

Senator, ANP

@a_siab

Most serious security threat for Pakistan is extremism/sectarianism & terrorism in the country. Pak could have taken a genuine strong stand had it implemented NAP. It cannot afford another Abbottabad. Let’s put our house in order before talking tough.

Minister of Defence

Ministry of Defence

@PakMnstrDefence

Pak as anti-terror ally has given free to US: land & air communication, military bases & intel cooperation that decimated Al-Qaeda over last 16yrs, but they have given us nothing but invective & mistrust. They overlook cross-border safe havens of terrorists who murder Pakistanis.

Reactions to President Trump's latest comments on Pakistan

#TheBuzz

Operation Zarb-e-Azb

Sharmeen Obaid

Film-maker

@sharmeenochinoy

A thought for those 30,000 fathers who sent their sons off to war today, also for those children who sent their fathers off. #ZarbEAzb #Pakistan

Marvi Sirmed

Columnist

@MarviSirmed

Yes to Mil Op, no to proxies. #ZarbEAzb The nation stands united to support our civil and military leadership to decimate terrorists. #LetsDoIt

Ali Dayan Hasan

Human Rights Activist

@AliDayan

High time @PMNawazSharif showed leadership & took political ownership of anti-Taliban operation. Address nation, Parliament. #Pakistan

Raza Rumi

Columnist

@Razarumi

Sleeper cells in the Punjab, Karachi & elsewhere need to be neutralized simultaneously. Also think beyond. Get a plan together dear government.

Cyril Almeida

Columnist, Dawn

@cyalm

Things Zarb-e-Azb has taught me so far. 1. War excites people, like really. 2. Media is full of liberal fascists who don’t know their swords.

Fahd Husain

Anchor, Express News

@Fahdhusain

The defining hour shall Inshallah become our finest hour #ZarbEAzb

Umar Cheema

Journalist

@UmarCheema1

May #ZarbeAzb be the final & fateful op. May it herald a new era of peace. Don’t forget the soldiers who’re there to help answer our prayers.

Hamid Mir

Journalist

@HamidMirGEO

If operation in NWA is need of the time then there should be a Swat-like targeted ground operation to minimize civilian causalities.

Ayaz Amir

Columnist

@AyyazAmir

Military operation will be meaningless if civilians don’t do their job of policing, law & order, crack-down of #LEJ & civil admin.#ZarbEAzb

Babar Sattar

Lawyer

@Babar_Sattar

With #ZarbEAzb finally underway can spoilers please hold their peace? Time to stand behind our troops & with our government/state unequivocally.

Reactions to the launch of a ground offensive in North Waziristan

#TheBuzz

Pakistan’s Pride: Malala Yousafzai

Nuzhat Siddiqi

Writer

Nuzhat Siddiqi

#Malala continues to love a country she has every reason to hate, unlike haters rallying against her. She deserves, at least, our gratitude.

Sharmeen Obaid Chinoy

Filmmaker

Sharmeen Obaid Chinoy

Maybe #Malala can come home now?! Sad that she has to live in exile. #Pakistan

Simbal Khan

Analyst

Simbal Khan

Great, great happiness for all Pakistanis, but especially the Pakistani women on #MalalaYousafzai #NobelPeacePrize

Fifi Haroon

BBC

Fifi Haroon

Met #Malala Yusufzai a year ago and knew this little girl had the light of a thousand fireflies. Proud to be a fellow Pakistani. She shines.

Mehreen Zahra Malik

Correspondent, Reuters

Mehreen Zahra Malik

Who the hell cares what the extremists and the nutjobs feel about #Malala. She's won over the universe! #NobelPeacePrize

Omar Quraishi

Editor, Express Tribune

Omar Quraishi

Usually have to do a late editorial when there's breaking news and in Pakistan that's often a bomb blast –so glad that this time was a Nobel Prize.

Ali Dayan

Human Rights Analyst

Ali Dayan

Malala Yusufzai - The Girl Who Lived. And how!! #Pakistan

Omar Wariach

Journalist

Omar Wariach

The Nobel's always tough on Pakistan's mullahs, first an Ahmedi and now a girl.

Asim Bajwa

Inter-Services Public Relations

Asim Bajwa

Congrats; #Malala becomes second Pakistani to win coveted Nobel prize. Except for terrorists, all Pakistanis want their children in school.

Maleeha Lodhi

Former Ambassador

Maleeha Lodhi

Proud of you Malala. You have done us all proud.

17-year-old Malala Yousafzai becomes youngest ever Nobel Peace Price winner

#TheBuzz

Pompeo Visit

Bushra Gohar

Central Vice President, ANP

@BushraGohar

#SMQ very unconvincing press briefing, playing with words…Seems the meeting didn’t go too well.

Meher Bokhari

Journalist & Anchor

@meherbokhari

3/so the stalemate has been broken claims FM @SMQureshiPTI but wout much fanfare or mutual agreement? No joint presser or declaration. However one that followed SMQs independent one, press statement from DC ends in NEED 4 PK 2 take “sustained & decisive measures against terrorists”

Farhatullah Babar

Former Senator

@FarhatullahB

Pompeo met army chief separately even after joint meeting with PM. Gen Dunford, not Pompeo, should have separately met army chief. Tradition of foreign civilian leaders making beeline to GHQ continues. So does the back seat driving and ‘same page’ mantra # Naya Pakistan.

Gharidah Farooqi

Journalist

@GFarooqi

In his meeting with COAS Bajwa, Secy Pompeo “conveyed” the “need” for Pakistan to take “sustained” & “decisive” measures against “terrorists and militants threatening regional peace & stability” Isn’t this “Do More?” We need @ForeignOfficePk @SMQureshiPTI to clarify pls #NoMore

Mariana Baabar

Journalist

@MarianaBaabar

2) So @ImranKhanPTI meets @SecPompeo in presence of Chief of Army Staff (COAS) General Qamar Javed Bajwa Good decision as late Ghulam Ishaq Khan would say.Late president would even have meeting with Americans in President House with PM and COAS to send message that all on one page.

Baqir Sajjad

Foreign Affairs / National Security Correspondent at Dawn

@baqirsajjad

Another important reason for being skeptical is the US shortsighted policy of viewing the mil-to-mil ties has the basis for any forward movement. This was emphasized both by @SecPompeo & @thejointstaff in their press talk. Relations need a wider basis for them to grow.

Nasim Zehra

Journalist & Author

@NasimZehra

Stalemate continues – conversation continues in circles- Pakistan clearly and firmly expressed its concerns. Washington ‘s demands remained intact. Pakistan should be in no hurry to ‘fix matters.’ Washington needs to revisit its simplistic approach to the region.

Shah Mahmood Qureshi

Foreign Minister of Pakistan

@SMQureshiPTI

Met with @SecPompeo at Islamabad earlier today. Today’s meeting was the beginning of a new dawn after a spell of darkness. The atmosphere was cordial, and one of mutual respect and understanding. And we think that’s a great start for a reset.

Syed Talat Hussain

Journalist

@TalatHussain12

Pompeo, Dunford get cold, minimal reception upon arrival. Islamabad is seething with anger over Trump Admn harshness.

Sherry Rehman

President, Jinnah Institute

@sherryrehman

America will continue to see push-back from Afghanistan, regardless of the 2+2 process it’s investing in. Unfortunately Pompeo’s visit to Islamabad will only underscore the disconnect on the ground if the US team decides to position all Taliban discontent as made-in-Pakistan. US Readout from the #PompeoVisit. See last few lines. Expects “decisive” action from Islamabad. Nothing new at all. Yet don’t understand why there was no joint press conference if a real re-set in bilate

Reset or Preset? Reactions to Pak-US ties under Pakistan's new government

#TheBuzz

Protection of Pakistan Ordinance 2014

Taha Siddiqui

Journalist

Taha Siddiqui

Army was already abducting civilians, but 1st this law & now PPO will give them legal cover for human rights abuse. #SayNoToExtraJudicialActs

Fifi Haroon

BBC

Fifi Haroon

Highly dubious this #PPO - this govt is closing in on everything that suggests critique or debate. Be it digital rights or political dissent.

Cyril Almeida

Columnist, DAWN

Cyril Almeida

Also, enjoying the quintessentially Pakistani twist that alleged author of army-dictated PPO Amendment is the same guy prosecuting Mush.

Marvi Sirmed

Journalist

Marvi Sirmed

Waiting for my arrest. RT @MaverickIR: Now those who will talk against #PMLN talks with TTP or its misgovernance will be booked under #PPO.

Arif Alvi

Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaaf (PTI)

Arif Alvi

Disgusting black day in NA. Protested against the PPO. Was ready to move my (31) amendments which the Speaker disallowed. Bill Bulldozed Brutally.

Nabil Gabol

Muttahida Qaumi Movement (MQM)

Nabil Gabol

Hypocrisy, isnt it? Zahid Hamid, once Musharaf's Minister for Law; today the same Zahid Hamid is made minister by MNS as he presented the PPO bill in the NA.

Naz Baloch

Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaaf (PTI)

Naz Baloch

PPO 2014 is irrational & a violation of the sanctity of citizens, as it authorises LEAs to break into any house without a search warrant.

Nafisa Shah

Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP)

Nafisa Shah

All political parties in the Parliament - PPP, PTI, MQM, JI and govt allies JUI-F - had severe objection at undemocratic way in which the PPO was passed.

Syed Raza Ali Abidi

Muttahida Qaumi Movement (MQM)

Syed Raza Ali Abidi

Do you know, that by this PPO of PML-N, each one of you is vulnerable to be shot at sight or held captive for 90 days' detention by LEAs.

Afrasiab Khattak

Awami National Party (ANP)

Afrasiab Khattak

The Senate of Pakistan will resist laws violative of human rights given in the Constitution.

What will the PPOs passage mean for civil liberties?

#TheBuzz

Pulwama Attack

Ahsan Iqbal

Former Minister for Interior & Planning, Dev & Reform

@betterpakistan

India should be under no delusion if it tried any misadventure against Pakistan, it will find a united and a resolute nation to confront. Pakistan believes in peace but has strongest resolve to defend itself.

Syed Talat Hussain

Anchor and Journalist

@TalatHussain12

From raids across the border to missile launches to waves of terrorism, say officials, Pakistan is intently watching a full range of eventualities. “We are not leaving anything to chance and hopefully the Indians know that”, said one official.

Aftab Ahmad Sherpao

Chairman Qaumi Watan Party

@AftabaSherpao

Imran Khan’s response to India’s aggressive attitude and warmongering came four days late. This serious situation should be discussed in the parliament and a unanimous response formulated without further delay

Mosharraf Zaidi

Columnist

@mosharrafzaidi

Unlike war-mongering lobbyists in the West & the Hindutva mainstream in India, Pakistan has spoken responsibly on Pulwama. Pakistan must neutralise groups like JeM. India must stop killing Kashmiris & address grievances in Occupied Kashmir. Sanity must prevail.

Mushahid Hussain

Senator

@Mushahid

Key motivation of Indian strategy to demonise Pakistan after Pulwama, apart from diverting attention away from the popular resistance to repression/Modi’s upcoming polls, is India sulking from the sidelines while Pakistan is at centre stage: CPEC, Kartarpur, Afghan peace process

Fahd Husain

Executive Editor, Express Tribune & Executive Director News, Express News

@Fahdhusain

Very good statement by PM IK. Perfect balance of reasonableness & firmess. Solid contrast to India’s war-mongering. Message from Pakistan is loud & clear: we have nothing to hide, nothing to justify & nothing to fear. India better think twice before acting crazy #Pulwama

Jalil Abbas Jilani

Former Foreign Secretary and Ambassador of Pakistan to the US

@JalilJilani

Rather than creating war hysteria,prudent for india to heed to PM Imran Khan’s advice in televised adress; Avoid rhetoric and baseless accusations, share actionable intelligence to take action,revive Anti Terror dialogue, end state repression and resolve Kashmir through dialogue

Nasim Zehra

Journalist & Author

@NasimZehra

Acc to PM @ImranKhanPTI : From Pakistan #SaudiCrownPrince takes the message to Delhi, that Pakistan is ready to cooperate with India in any kind of investigation on Pulwama killings.

Asad Umar

Federal Minister for Finance, Pakistan

@Asad_Umar

India needs to listen to the people of kashmir. It must realize that the more they try and repress the people of kashmir through violence the more determined kashmiri’s become to break free from the subjugation by India. No amount of scapegoating Pakistan will change that reality

Sherry Rehman

President, Jinnah Institute

@sherryrehman

But is Delhi even listening to Kashmiri leaders, let alone insurgents?Without an investigation the alacrity with which public anger is being marshalled in India against Pakistan is bizarre. Threatening “complete isolation” among other actions is unhelpful and frankly, unrealistic

Pakistan's Twittershpere responds to war Hysteria in Delhi

#TheBuzz

Qatar in the Cross-hairs

Gen Ghulam Mustafa-R

Geo Political and Defense Analyst

@_GhulamMustafa_

KSA+8 vs Qatar. All not lost. Pak +Turkey, two Muslim world heavy weights should join hands, help initiate dialogue between 2 sides ASAP.

Zarrar Khuhro‏

Journalist

@ZarrarKhuhro

Make no mistake about it, the pain being applied to Qatar is a preview. Pakistan will also face immense pressure to openly ally w KSA agnst Iran and its allies.

Farrukh K. Pitafi

TV Anchor

@FarrukhKPitafi

This kind of parochialism is bound to further shrink your sphere of influence.

Shireen Mazari‏

Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI)

@ShireenMazari1

Situation gets murkier in GCC raising more question marks on KSA-led mly alliance – with GCC mbrs + Egypt turning on 1 of their own:Qatar

M. Raza Ahmad Rumi

Columnist

@Razarumi

Will Qatar sacrifice Al Jazeera to mend regional ties? by @CRrileyCNN It would be a terrible choice, if ever made.

Adil Najam عادل نجم

Professor, International Relations

@AdilNajam

#Gulf #GCC always a deeply troubled & troubling place. Stay clear of #Saudi machinations, #Pakistan. You will be asked to take sides. Don’t.

Moeed Pirzada

TV Anchor

@MoeedNj

Arab Coalition’s treatment of tiny Qatar & the ridiculous accusations levelled are another low point in Muslim history; and it won’t work.

Mosharraf Zaidi

Columnist

@mosharrafzaidi

How does the GCC vs GCC vs Iran strife affect Pakistan? We need balance in the GCC, thru equilibrium at home.

Sherry Rehman

President, Jinnah Institute

@sherryrehman

Dangerous faultlines in the Middle East metastasising fast. #Qatar now in the eye of a new storm over news leaks.

Reactions to the diplomatic crises over Qatar, and fresh tensions in the Middle East

#TheBuzz

SAARC Summit 2014

Benazir Shah

Reporter, Newsweek

Benazir Shah

In Nepal, Sharif feasted on fish, organic chicken, mutton. For dessert, he preferred saffron kheer.​

Marvi Sirmed

Journalist

Marvi Sirmed

N​awaz ​S​harif​ is at SAARC. Time for Pakistani media to think of negative headlines. Or maybe they'd receive editorial help from.... ahem the big Boss?

Mehr Tarar

Journalist

Mehr Tarar

PM Modi not greeting PM Sharif doesn't make much sense, since neither of them was in power in 2008. How will the silence end the enmity ever?

Nasim Zehra

Anchor, Capital TV

Nasim Zehra

Nawaz-Modi will meet in Kathmandu but will Modi see wisdom in engaging on Kashmir?

Mehreen Zahra Malik

Correspondent, Reuters

Mehreen Zahra Malik

At UNGA, Modi rebukes #Pakistan for Kashmir obsession. At #SAARC, Pakistan rebuffed by #India over bigger #China role in Saarc. What's next?

Raza Rumi

Political Analyst

Raza Rumi

The way forward for economic integration: RT @PTI_News: India will now give business visa for 3-5 years for SAARC countries: PM Modi.

Omar Quraishi

Editor, Express Tribune

Omar Quraishi

SAARC Summit boils down to will they or won't they - shake hands that is - and they finally did it: PMs of India & Pakistan meet informally.

Munawar Bhatti

Former Ambassador

Munawar Bhatti

Perhaps to celebrate 18th SAARC Summit, Indian troops again resort to provocative firing on Pakistan territory in Sialkot sector.

Maleeha Lodhi

Former Ambassador

Maleeha Lodhi

If Modi is setting new rules of engagement, that doesn’t mean Pakistan has to accept. PM Nawaz has made it clear Kashmir is central to Pak agenda

Afrasiab Khattak

Awami National Party (ANP)

Afrasiab Khattak

Pakistani delegations had to travel Islamabad-Doha-Kathmandu to take part in People's SAARC. South Asian Disconnect!

Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif attends 18th SAARC Summit in Kathmandu

#TheBuzz

Talks, yet again!

Marvi Sirmed

Journalist

@Marvi Sirmed

Kudos to #MQM for standing their ground in #NA today on Negotiations with Taliban. Rest have played a selfish politics. Progressive parties?

Huma Yusuf

Policy Analyst

@Huma Yusuf

Government has simultaneously announced peace talks with #TTP & imminent military operation in NWA. When will this drama end?

Adil Najam

Professor of International Relations

@Adil Najam

For those who are deafened by the echoes of our own silence: There is only one way to break the silence. It is, to speak up…

Mehreen Zahra-Malik

Pakistan Correspondent, Reuters

@Mehreen Zahra-Malik

A reporter, a columnist, a retired army major and ex-envoy walk into peace talks with Taliban. They would’ve been better off going to a bar…

Murtaza Solangi

Journalist

@Murtaza Solangi

No counter-terror expert, no senior govt functionary with any institutional memory, no religious expert & no politician. What a committee!

Raza Rumi

Anchor, Express News

@Raza Rumi

After a clear-headed diagnosis, Nawaz Sharif back to square one: 4 member peace talks committee. Most sympathetic to ‘our own people’.

Nasim Zehra

Anchor, Capital TV

@Nasim Zehra

Yes to a time-bound dialogue seeking TTP’s voluntary disarming & its surrender to the writ of the State-all within Constitutional parameters.

Mohammad Malick

Group Editor, Dunya News

@Mohammad Malick

Expect terrorists to play dialogue to buy time but things are inevitably moving towards the inevitable. Finally, and hopefully!

Zahid Hussain

Journalist

@Zahid Hussain

Disgusting. Begging murderers for talks. Nothing shakes the rulers. Dialogue with Taliban top priority of govt: Nisar

Tahir-ul-Qadri

Minhaj-ul-Quran International

@Tahir-ul-Qadri

Those who want to negotiate with terrorists, are indirectly protecting terrorists and strengthening their wrong philosophy. #Pakistan

Reaction to PM Nawaz Sharifs speech on negotiating with the TTP