U.S. airlines advised to give China flight plans over new defence zone

WASHINGTON: The United States advised its commercial airlines to notify Chinese authorities of flight plans when travelling through an air defence zone that Beijing established a week ago over the East China Sea, ratcheting up regional tensions.
 The United States said it expected U.S. carriers to operate in line with so-called notices to airmen issued by foreign countries, adding, however, that the decision did "not indicate U.S. government acceptance of China's requirements.

Pakistan promises to help Afghans meet former Taliban chief

KABUL: Pakistani Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif promised Afghanistan on Saturday that he would help arrange further meetings between Afghan officials and a former Taliban commander as part of renewed efforts to revive a defunct peace process. Pakistan announced it would release the insurgent group's former second-in-command, Mullah Abdul Ghani Baradar, in September. Afghan officials believe he still retains enough influence within the Taliban to help rekindle peace talks.

Imran Khan demands immediate removal of NAB Chairman

ISLAMABAD: Pakistan Tehrik-e-Insaf (PTI) Chief Imran Khan has demanded immediate removal of the NAB Chairman today. Imran Khan said in a statement this day that the Supreme Court had declared in its verdict on NICL swindle case that the current NAB Chairman was also involved in that corruption. “The government should remove current NAB Chairman at once and end its drama of sending him on leave for delaying the law process,” demanded the PTI Chief. “The NAB Chairman should be beyond the doubts for fruitful accountability of the key culprits in country,