Pakistan reaffirmed its political, moral, and diplomatic support, criticising India’s refusal to implement UN resolutions and its 2019 revocation of Kashmir’s special status

The diplomacy comes amid rising military tensions, including a US naval build-up and reports of a drone incident near the USS Abraham Lincoln.

Iran insists negotiations focus only on the nuclear file, rejecting missile discussions, as uncertainty remains over whether Friday’s meeting will be in Oman or Turkiye.

The negotiations continue into Thursday amid European concerns of being sidelined and warnings that fighting could intensify if talks fail.

Major disputes remain over eastern territory, as Russia demands troop withdrawals from Donbas while Ukraine wants the conflict frozen along current front lines.

Both leaders held delegation-level talks and agreed to expand trade, economic, and defence cooperation.

The visit also saw the signing of 36 agreements, with Pakistan aiming to raise bilateral trade from $250 million to $1 billion.

Officials said intensified clearance operations have killed 197 terrorists after coordinated assaults on government facilities in Nushki.

The negotiations continue through Thursday amid a deep stalemate and warnings that fighting could intensify if talks fail.

Xi urged a “grand plan” for deeper engagement, while Putin highlighted close energy links and accepted invitations to visit China later this year.

The call comes as their “no-limits” partnership faces Western scrutiny over Beijing’s support for Moscow during the Ukraine war.

Arms control groups warned the lapse could spark a new nuclear arms race, with Trump saying a “better agreement” could follow.

Putin reiterated openness to dialogue and restraint, but the Kremlin says Washington has given no response to Moscow’s extension proposal.

He reviewed renovation work and was briefed on measures to maintain religious sites and facilitate pilgrims under the ETPB.

Officials said the visit highlighted Pakistan’s commitment to protecting minority heritage and boosting cultural goodwill internationally.

Pakistan says the boycott is in solidarity with Bangladesh and accuses the ICC of applying “different standards,” while the council warned it “harms the sport and its global fanbase.”

The meeting comes amid rising military tensions, including a US naval build-up and the reported shootdown of an Iranian drone near the USS Abraham Lincoln.

Iran says sanctions relief is key, while warning any US attack would trigger a “regional war,” as Trump renews “maximum pressure” on Tehran.