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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.
Former President Karzai Says US Plan a Catalyst for Afghan Peace
By Associated Press
Former Afghan President Hamid Karzai says a proposed peace deal put out by the U.S. offers the best chance forward beyond the stalled talks.
Qatar Police Recruit Nepali Citizens, Leaving Kathmandu Out of the Loop
By Arun Budhathoki
There is an urgent need for Nepal to sign a formal agreement with Qatar in order to safeguard the interests of its workers in that country.
Even After a Peace Agreement, Afghanistan’s Future Unclear
By Milad Naeimi
Yet another elite-based peace agreement, rather than one centered on the people, simply assures a future conflict in Afghanistan.
Russia Planning Afghanistan Conference
By Catherine Putz
Russia has reportedly invited representatives of the Afghan government, the Taliban, China, Pakistan, and the United States to Moscow for a meeting next week.
Indian Activist’s Arrest Spotlights Crackdown on Dissent
By Associated Press
Modi's government has increasingly brandished sedition against critics, with police arguing that words or actions of dissent make them a threat to national security.
Gendered Land: Sri Lankan Women Battle Unequal Access to Resources
By Bansari Kamdar
A variety of legal and social hurdles stand in the way of land ownership by Sri Lankan women.
Iran Refutes Indian Media Reports on Israeli Embassy Attack
By Abhijnan Rej
The January 29 attack could prove to be a further sticking point in the increasingly convoluted India-Iran relationship.
The Pakistani Taliban is Back
By Daud Khattak
Over the past two years, the Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan has re-emerged. The group poses a threat in Pakistan and beyond.
As US Mulls Afghan Exit, Activist Sees Long Fight for Women
By Associated Press
The road to justice and equality remains long.
Second, Kinder Acts: The Story of Reena Nachika
By Abhijit Mohanty
On the occasion of International Women’s Day, the story of a young Indian Maoist who turned her back on violence – and now champions education instead.
Indian PM to Inaugurate New Bridge Connecting Bangladesh and India
By Abhijnan Rej
This year, marking the 50th independence anniversary of Bangladesh, provides both Dhaka and New Delhi a natural opportunity to bring relations back on track.
The Blinken Letter: A Renewed Push for Afghan Peace, Proposals Both New and Old
By Catherine Putz
Parts of the brief letter have drawn a strong reaction from Afghan leaders, while talks dangle in Doha.