US Senator calls for deescalation of tensions between India, Pakistan

WASHINGTON: Fresh from her visit to Pakistan-occupied Kashmir, New England Senator Maggie Hasan has called for finding ways to de-escalate tensions between India and Pakistan. Hasan, who is currently on a visit to the region, is now headed to India after travelling to Afghanistan and Pakistan. In Pakistan, she met Prime Minister Imran Khan and

Chief of Army Staff General Qamar Javed Bajwa to discuss joint counter-terrorism work and regional stability. “Amid escalating tensions in Kashmir, it’s critical that we find ways to help de-escalate the situation on both sides,” she tweeted. “I’m now travelling to India where I’ll meet officials to further discuss the situation and international trade,” she added NEW DELHI: The Army’s top commanders will congregate here next week for a conference that will see them discuss a raft of issues including the situation in Kashmir, emerging security challenges, the ongoing restructuring exercise, operational readiness and the scenario along the country’s western and eastern borders, two officials familiar with the move said on Friday.

The Army Commander’s conference, a biannual event, will be held in Delhi from October 14-19.

The apex level leadership of Indian Army will brainstorm on emerging security and administrative challenges and chart the future course for the force, an army spokesperson said. “The conference facilitates conceptual level deliberations culminating in important policy decisions… Discussions on ongoing contemporary issues are also scheduled,” he added.

Army chief General Bipin Rawat will address the top commanders on the opening day of the conference.

The Army is in the midst of a revamp that will bring about some far-reaching changes, including a troop cut, improved tooth-to-tail ratio, and several technological advancements.