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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.
Saudis Deposit $2 Billion in Pakistan’s Central Bank Ahead of Key IMF Meeting
By Munir Ahmed
The deposit is not a loan but will shore up Pakistan’s reserves and remain in the bank for at least a year.
Israel’s Role in Sri Lanka’s Dirty War
By Rathindra Kuruwita
The West slams Pakistan and China for supplying arms used by Sri Lanka in alleged war crimes against Tamils during the civil war but is silent on Israel’s complicity.
Dutch to Return Bejeweled Cannon and Other Artifacts Taken From Sri Lanka During Colonial Rule
By Bharatha Mallawarachi
Among the artifacts is the Cannon of Kandy, a ceremonial weapon made of bronze, silver and gold and inlaid with rubies.
India Rejects Hague Court Order on Indus Water Treaty
By Snigdhendu Bhattacharya
New Delhi believes the 63-year-old Treaty needs updating due to technological advances and climate change.
Former Adversaries Unite to Challenge President Solih in Maldives Presidential Elections
By Mimrah Abdul Ghafoor
But there are serious differences between the constituents of the new anti-Solih partnership on domestic and foreign policy issues.
North India Reels Under Monsoon Fury; Pakistan on Alert
By Associated Press
Heavy rains have triggered flash floods and landslides, especially in the northern hill states.
A Weak Putin Is India’s Worst Nightmare
By Mohamed Zeeshan
It would force Indian dependence on the United States for diplomatic and military support, which New Delhi would like to avoid.
Anti-Sweden Rallies Erupt in Pakistan Against Burning of Quran
By Munir Ahmed
Anger has grown in Muslim countries since an Iraqi Christian burned Islam’s holy book in Stockholm last week.
As the Quad Blossoms, Why Does BRICS Matter for India?
By Abhishek Sharma and Moksh Suri
BRICS’ development-focused diplomacy allows India to pursue a broader agenda than the Quad – and one more focused on the concerns of developing countries.
With New IMF Deal, Pakistan Gets Another Chance to Fix Economy
By Umair Jamal
Elections are looming. There is a risk of politicians forgetting their commitments to the IMF.
India’s Manipur State on the Brink of Civil War
By Sheikh Saaliq
Prime Minister Modi has been silent since the violence erupted in early May. Manipur’s chief minister says all is well. Meanwhile, Manipur burns.
Bilawal Bhutto Zardari’s Visit to Japan
By Asfandiyar
Japan is hoping to counter China in Pakistan, while Islamabad is trying to counteract Tokyo’s historically tight ties with India.