The Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) signalled on Saturday a "positive" response to Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif’s offer to hold talks.
Reacting to the development, PTI leader Asad Qaiser stated that talks remain a serious matter and that the party would respond only after internal consultation. He added that the prime minister’s offer had come unexpectedly, and therefore an immediate response would not be possible.
According to sources, the prime minister made the proposal during a meeting in the parliament with PTI leaders Barrister Gohar and Asad Qaiser.
PM Shehbaz said that issues could only move forward through dialogue and mutual understanding. In response, Barrister Gohar reportedly smiled and replied simply, ‘Insha’Allah’.
Earlier, it was reported that the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) rejected on Saturday adviser to the prime minister, Rana Sanaullah’s offer of talks, asserting that the government lacks “seriousness and has failed” to create a conducive environment for dialogue.
Former National Assembly speaker Asad Qaiser stated that, given the current circumstances, any discussion of negotiations is beyond comprehension. Qaiser criticised the government’s approach, saying, "While it speaks of dialogue, it simultaneously conducts raids on party members’ homes and carries out unwarranted arrests."
"Meetings with our party founder have been prohibited. Talking about negotiations in these conditions is incomprehensible," said Qaiser.
"We will engage in talks only when the government demonstrates genuine seriousness," Qaiser added.
