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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.
The Afghan Endgame: What, When, and How
By Daud Khattak
As Doha gears up for another round of Taliban talks, hope and despair are both in the air.
The Afghan National Unity Government’s ‘China Card’ Approach to Pakistan: Part 2
By Ahmad Bilal Khalil
The NUG has seen more success than its predecessors in appealing to China – largely thanks to the Belt and Road.
Why the Pakistani Establishment Is Rooting for the BJP
By Kunwar Khuldune Shahid
The strange logic behind Pakistan's leaders wanting a Hindu nationalist party to keep control of India.
Afghanistan’s ‘China Card’ Approach to Pakistan, Part 1: 1991-2014
By Ahmad Bilal Khalil
Since the early '90s, Kabul has tried to convince China to intervene with Pakistan on its behalf – to little success.
In India’s Elections, Voters Will Choose Between Guns and Butter
By Aman Thakker
India’s election sees the two major national parties adopting drastically different pitches to the electorate.
India’s National Security Election: Why It’s Advantage Modi
By Harsh V. Pant
The Indian prime minister’s national security credentials are poised to have benefits at the polls.
In Afghanistan, Talking and Killing Continue in Tandem
By Catherine Putz
The next Doha meeting, which the Afghan government plans to attend, has been pushed back. Meanwhile, attacks continue.
Girls’ Education in India and the Maharaja Bhagwat Singh of Gondal
By Daniela Kaisth
How a progressive Indian Maharaja revolutionized girls’ education in the early 20th century.
Why the Taliban Are in Control of the Afghan Peace Process
By Umair Jamal
The Afghan peace process is at the mercy of the Taliban.
US, Afghan Casualties Continue to Climb Even Amid Peace Talks
By Rahim Faiez
Since Monday, 3 American soldiers and 20 Afghan troops have been killed in Taliban attacks.
India, Sri Lanka Conclude Agreement on Countering Drug and Human Trafficking
By Ankit Panda
Drugs and human trafficking were at the center of recent talks.
Maldives’ Crucial Ballot to Elect New Parliament
By Associated Press
More than 264,000 people were eligible to vote for 386 candidates running for the 87 seats in parliament.