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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.

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Curb Your Enthusiasm for an Israel-Pakistan Peace Agreement

Curb Your Enthusiasm for an Israel-Pakistan Peace Agreement

By Varsha Koduvayur and Akhil Bery
While Pakistan has good reasons to normalize relations with Israel, domestic and geopolitical compulsions stand in the way.
Chinese Defense Minister Visits Nepal Amid Signs of Thaw in India-Nepal Relations

Chinese Defense Minister Visits Nepal Amid Signs of Thaw in India-Nepal Relations

By Sudha Ramachandran
A blockade of Nepal in 2015 that was unofficially supported by India has paved the way for greater ties between Beijing and Kathmandu.

Procedure Set, Intra-Afghan Talks to Move on to Setting an Agenda

Procedure Set, Intra-Afghan Talks to Move on to Setting an Agenda

By Catherine Putz
After nearly three months, the Afghan government and the Taliban have reportedly agreed on a three-page document setting out the rules and procedures for talks.

Did India’s Parliament Restrict Democratic Debate With Lockdown Measures? 

Did India’s Parliament Restrict Democratic Debate With Lockdown Measures? 

By Krzysztof Iwanek
While the scope of legislation and debates in the Indian Parliament were reduced, these measures were temporary and lockdown-related.

India and the Seychelles: Economics First, Defense Later

India and the Seychelles: Economics First, Defense Later

By Astha Chadha
New Delhi needs to deepen economic ties with the island nation in order to address concerns arising from the growing Indian defense footprint there.
On Economic Reforms, Modi’s Strength Is His Weakness

On Economic Reforms, Modi’s Strength Is His Weakness

By Mohamed Zeeshan
To revive its economy, India needs more democracy, not less.

With the Rajapaksas at the Helm, Press Freedom in Sri Lanka Takes a Hit

With the Rajapaksas at the Helm, Press Freedom in Sri Lanka Takes a Hit

By Jeevethan Selvachandran
As President Gotabaya Rajapaksa continues amassing power, the future for the country's media looks bleak.
NATO Mulls Afghan Dilemma as US Draws Down, Attacks Mount

NATO Mulls Afghan Dilemma as US Draws Down, Attacks Mount

By Associated Press
But despite the surge in violence, and deep uncertainty caused by the U.S. drawdown, the peace agreement appears to be an opportunity too good for NATO to miss.

Pakistan’s Opposition Holds Rally in Multan Day After Arrests

Pakistan’s Opposition Holds Rally in Multan Day After Arrests

By Associated Press
Hundreds of activists were arrested a day ahead of the opposition rally, which went ahead despite a government ban.

Colombo Hosts India-Maldives-Sri Lanka Maritime Security NSA Trilateral Meeting

Colombo Hosts India-Maldives-Sri Lanka Maritime Security NSA Trilateral Meeting

By Abhijnan Rej
Indian National Security Adviser Ajit Doval’s history with the island nation and the Rajapaksa brothers is worth keeping in mind.

Unfazed Indian Farmers Continue Protest Against New Laws

Unfazed Indian Farmers Continue Protest Against New Laws

By Associated Press
In September, India passed new laws that some farmers term unfair and against their interests.
Infighting in Pakistan’s Right-Wing TLP Following Death of Leader

Infighting in Pakistan’s Right-Wing TLP Following Death of Leader

By Umair Jamal
Pir Afzal Qadri, a prominent figure in the Tehreek-e-Labbaik, has challenged Khadim Rizvi’s son anointment as party leader.

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