ISLAMABAD: Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif said the government is still willing to hold talks with Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) with sincerity and seriousness to resolve the issues.

Addressing Cabinet, PM Shehbaz said the government provided a conducive environment for negotiations with the PTI but the party is 'running away and avoiding' entering dialogue process.

He said the seriousness and sincerity of the government to hold talks with PTI can be judged from the fact that we constituted a committee with Speaker Ayaz Sadiq in the chair for this purpose. He said PTI did not attend the meeting on 28th of this month and terminated the talks unilaterally.

"A committee was formed, and extensive talks took place as per their demands," he said. "A final meeting was scheduled for January 28 in response to their written request, yet they withdrew at the eleventh hour."

He said the country cannot afford any kind of unrest and anarchy. He said dialogue is the only way to proceed further and put the country on path of development.

Meanwhile, he reaffirmed the government's commitment to honouring the sacrifices of the nation's martyrs and advancing Pakistan towards prosperity and security.

Prior to the meeting he attended the funeral prayers of Major Hamza Israr and Sepoy Muhammad Naeem. Paying tribute to the martyred soldiers, he highlighted the unwavering dedication of Pakistan's law enforcement agencies and security forces to safeguarding the nation.

During meeting, he also stressed that achieving Pakistan's vision for development and security requires a steadfast commitment from all segments of society. He expressed the government's resolve to maintain national security while ensuring economic and political stability.

He said the State Bank of Pakistan's decision to reduce policy rate by one percent will enhance economic growth and trade activities.

Voicing concern over the incidents of human trafficking, he said these incidents resulted in the loss of many precious lives offshore and tarnished Pakistan's image globally.

Published in The Daily National Courier, January, 31 2025

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