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The Pulse
South Asia is a story of promise and peril where Asia’s conflicting forces of modernity and reaction meet head on. Home to a multitude of different cultures, ethnicities, and religions, The Diplomat's regional correspondents and experts will provide the insight you need to navigate one of the world's most consequential regions.
Taliban Send All-Male Team to Asian Games But Afghan Women Come From Outside
By David Rising
Two different teams are representing Afghanistan: the Taliban-approved team, and a team of diaspora athletes – including women – competing under the old flag.
Pakistan to Hold General Elections in Late January
By Munir Ahmed
The announcement puts to rest speculation that the election, which was due to be held in November, would be indefinitely postponed.
Why Was the US Ambassador’s Visit to Gwadar Important?
By Mariyam Suleman Anees
After staying away from Balochistan for over 15 years, the United States is showing increasing interest in the strategic, China-funded and operated port of Gwadar.
G-20’s Delhi Declaration Fell Short on Climate Change
By Laraib Farhat
It acknowledged "national circumstances" in the gradual reduction of "unabated coal power," but omitted any reference to decreasing crude oil consumption.
In Spat With India, Canada Gets Muted Allied Support
By Rob Gillies
While its Western allies have declared their concern and urged full investigations, none has condemned India for its alleged killing of a Canadian.
Bill on 33% Quota for Women in Legislatures Passes Lower House of Indian Parliament
By Kavita Chowdhury
While the BJP may gain votes in upcoming general elections for the move, it will be a long time before women reap any benefits.
Trudeau’s Accusation Against India Is Ominous for India-US Ties
By Mohamed Zeeshan
India is a partner against China, but the rationale for countering China is precisely that Beijing engages in the sort of activities which the Canadian PM has accused India of undertaking.
Fortified Himalayas: Why Nepal Can’t Shake Its Dependence on India
By Sanju Gurung
Nepali Prime Minister Dahal’s upcoming visit to China is important if the country is going to truly forge meaningful links to the north.
India-Canada Ties Are Caught in Downward Spiral
By Krutika Pathi and Sheikh Saaliq
Sikh separatism has long strained bilateral relations. Now it's sunk them to their lowest point in years.
Why Is the UN Key to Nepal’s Diplomacy?
By Santosh Sharma Poudel
In addition to his address at the U.N. General Assembly, Nepali Prime Minister Dahal has a string of diplomatic engagements lined up in New York.
Nasheed’s Democrats Emerge Kingmakers in Maldivian Presidential Election
By Mimrah Abdul Ghafoor
Will President Solih concede to friend-turned-foe Nasheed’s demand for a referendum to win his support in the runoff election?
Hobson’s Choice for India in Taliban-Held Afghanistan
By Shanthie Mariet D’Souza
When it comes the question of engaging with the Taliban, New Delhi favors a cautious middle path.