SAARC: India terms terrorism as the biggest challenge for the region

Addressing the SAARC Foreign Ministers meeting here, External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj strongly emphasised on improving road, rail, sea and air connectivity among the member countries to spur economic growth and asserted India's "neighbourhood first policy" to ensure overall development of the region.
  
Referring to a recent suicide bombing in Afghanistan that left more than 50 people dead, she said, "This cowardly act, of killing and maiming people watching a volleyball match, has shown once again that terrorism is the biggest challenge our region faces today, and requires a collective response."
  
She also conveyed condolences to the government and people of Afghanistan for the "terrible tragedy". Talking about making SAARC more effective, Swaraj said the new BJP-led government has been following the vision of "together with all; development for all" and it is also India’s vision for the regional grouping.

"My government and I are firm believers in the policy of Neighbourhood First. It was this vision that animated the invitation that Prime Minister Modi extended to the Heads of Government of all SAARC countries for his swearing in. It is the same vision that has made me travel to five of the seven SAARC countries in the six months that I have been in office.
    
"Another vision that my government is committed to is sabka saath, sabka vikas. Together with all; Development for all. This is also our vision for SAARC. "How together all eight member states can make faster progress and improve the quality of life for all our peoples.

Source: MP News in Hindi and Chhattisgarh Hindi News

Death toll rises to 61 in Pakistan suicide attack at Wagah Border

Ten women, eight children and three security personnel were among the 61 people who have died in the attack that took place yesterday when a suicide attacker detonated a powerful bomb at Wagah.

Over 100 people were injured in the incident and are being treated in different Lahore's hospitals where emergency has been declared.

The blast took place when a large number of people were returning after attending the flag lowering ceremony at themain Indo-Pak land border crossing, which is heavily guarded by the Punjab Rangers.

A young suicide-bomber blew himself up near the main exit gate of Parade Avenue at 6.03 pm (local time), causing colossal devastation.

"The death toll of the devastating suicide attack at Wagah border has risen to 61. The condition of some injured is still critical and the doctors are battling to save their lives," Punjab Emergency Services Rescue spokesman Jam Sajjad said.

About 43 bodies have been handed over to the families while the remaining are yet to be recognised, Sajjad said.

"We have sought the help of the National Registration Database Authority (Nadra) for recognition of 18 bodies," he said.

The law enforcement agencies have launched operation inthe residential areas in Wagah and taken about 20 suspects  into custody, Lahore police spokesman Niyab Haider Naqvi said.

Source: MP News in Hindi and Chhattisgarh Hindi News