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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.
Pakistan's Local Militants Show Weakness With Islamic State Allegiance
By Kiran Nazish
Pakistan's militant groups are showing weakness by allowing the Islamic State to carry out operations on their turf.
Modi Must Overhaul India-Pakistan Relations
By Sanjay Kumar
Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi must inject the India-Pakistan relationship with vision.
Nepal’s Political Deadlock
By Michael Vurens van Es
The possibility of forging consensus on key constitutional issues looks increasingly dismal.
In Sri Lanka, an Opportunity for National Reconciliation
By Nilan Fernando
Maithripala Sirisena's ascent presents an historic opportunity for democratic rejuvenation in Sri Lanka.
Pope Francis Begins Asia Tour in Sri Lanka
By Ankit Panda
Pope Francis began his 2015 Asia tour with a visit to Sri Lanka.
Nepal Strikes to Protest Constitutional Assembly
By Stephen Groves
The capital shuts down as Nepal’s constitution deadline approaches.
Ashraf Ghani and a Game of Fiefdoms
By Shawn Snow
Is the president being too ambitious in his effort to end corruption in Afghanistan?
Sri Lanka’s Victory for Democracy
By Alyssa Ayres
Maithripala Sirisena’s dramatic win may also prove to be a win for the international liberal order.
Border Violence and the Iran-Pakistan Gas Project
By Kiyya Baloch
Signs of forward movement on a critical gas pipeline could be derailed by border attacks.
Taliban Reject Afghan Cabinet Positions
By Akhilesh Pillalamarri
The new Afghan government offered cabinet positions to members of the Taliban, but the posts were refused.
Sri Lanka's Election Upset: Causes and Effects
By Ankit Panda
Maithripala Sirisena was sworn in as Sri Lankan president after upsetting Mahinda Rajapaksa in national elections.
Military on Standby as Sri Lanka Votes
By Ankit Panda
Sri Lanka's early elections are expected to be a close race between Mahinda Rajapaksa and his opponent.