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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.
Afghanistan’s Peace Talks: At a Geopolitical Crossroads
By Jack Detsch
With the U.S. refocusing its role in Afghanistan, China and Pakistan are leading the push for talks with the Taliban.
Death of an Idea: New Delhi's 'Common Men' Fall From Grace
By Sanjay Kumar
With the leadership of the organization at odds, the biggest supporters of India’s Common Man Party are defecting.
Why Washington Is Watching Modi’s Moves in the Indian Ocean
By Jhinuk Chowdhury
India perfectly fits into the role U.S. envisages it playing in the Indian Ocean – that of a net security provider.
Why Pakistan Is Footing the Bill for Afghan Army Training
By Jack Detsch
Afghanistan has sent six cadets to undergo training in Abbottabad. What does it mean for relations with Pakistan?
How Will Pakistan Respond to the Crisis in Yemen?
By Ankit Panda
As Arab states head to war in Yemen, Pakistan weighs its options.
How Ashraf Ghani's Government Will Address Afghanistan's Endemic Problems
By Hannah Gais
Speaking in New York City, Afghan President Ashraf Ghani outlined his government's approach to Afghanistan's varied problems.
Winston Churchill in India
By Francis P. Sempa
The great statesman’s literary career was shaped by fighting in some familiar territory.
Shocking Conditions for Balochistan’s Women
By Muhammad Akbar Notezai
Honor killings, acid attacks, maternal mortality, and illiteracy – life for women in Pakistan’s largest province is grim.
Afghans in America: Takeaways from Ghani and Abdullah's US Visit
By Akhilesh Pillalamarri
Can Afghanistan's problem be solved by a shift to a parliamentary system of government?
Chinese Operations in Balochistan Again Targeted by Militants
By Kiyya Baloch
A fleet of oil tankers is attacked, as local tensions flare over major development projects.
China and India: Competing for Influence in Afghanistan
By Tridivesh Singh Maini
The two countries may well tussle for influence in postwar Afghanistan, but will also need to work together.
Lee Kuan Yew Believed in India
By Akhilesh Pillalamarri
Lee Kuan Yew was both an admirer and critic of India.