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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.
50 Years of Japan-Bangladesh Ties: From Economic to Strategic Partnership
By Hussain Shazzad
This often-overlooked partnership figures prominently in the strategic and economic goals of both countries.
Will the Indian Farmers’ Movement Successfully Transition From Protests to Polls?
By Ananya Sharma
The Sanyukt Samaj Morcha, which emerged from the farmers’ movement, is in the fray in upcoming state assembly elections in Punjab.
New COVID-19 Wave Batters Afghanistan’s Crumbling Health Care
By Kathy Gannon
Nearly half the samples in public laboratories in Afghanistan between January 30 and February 5 tested positive for COVID-19.
India-Nepal Territorial Dispute Flares up Again
By Santosh Sharma Poudel
Indian Prime Minister Modi spoke of a road through disputed Lipulekh with an eye on Hindu votes. It could deepen anti-India nationalism in Nepal.
Conflict Over Afghanistan’s UN Seat Widens
By Catherine Putz
The wrangling over Afghanistan's U.N. seat is microcosm of the larger political battlefield in Afghanistan.
Mauritius Presses Claim for Indian Ocean Islands Under ‘Unlawful’ UK Administration
By David Rising
The ICJ founded in 2019 that Mauritius is the rightful owner of the Chagos Islands, which are currently administered by Britain and host a crucial U.S. military base.
Muslim Students Wearing Hijab Barred From School in India
By Sheikh Saaliq
A Karnataka High Court is hearing petitions filed by the students and will rule on the high school’s decision to ban the hijab.
Bangladesh and Myanmar Resume Talks on Rohingya Repatriation
By Shafi Md Mostofa
If the situation in Myanmar’s Rakhine state does not instill confidence in the Rohingya refugees, voluntary repatriation would be impossible.
Pakistan: Areas Cleared After Militant Attacks Kill 9 Troops
By Abdul Sattar
Authorities say they have quelled an insurgency launched by Baluch separatists demanding independence from Pakistan, but attacks have continued in recent years.
Kashmir Journalist Arrested Under India’s Anti-Terror Law
By Associated Press
Police accused the journalist of publishing “anti-national content,” without specifying what it is.
China and Pakistan Reiterate Support to Each Other’s Core Interests
By Umair Jamal
The joint statement issued during Prime Minister Imran Khan’s visit to Beijing was silent on any Chinese hard cash investment in CPEC projects.
How to Deliver Aid to Afghanistan, Responsibly
By Catherine Putz
In its latest quarterly report, SIGAR suggests 10 best practices for donors and agencies seeking to aid Afghans in a desperate time.