Government, opposition begin talks in Islamabad

Negotiations between the government and the opposition began in Pakistan’s federal capital on Friday, with the talks taking place in the committee room of the Speaker’s Chamber.

The two sides are discussing the country’s current political situation and matters of mutual interest.

National Assembly Speaker Ayaz Sadiq is leading the government’s negotiating delegation. Other participants include Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi, Talal Chaudhry, Dr Tariq Fazal Chaudhry and Rana Sanaullah.

The opposition’s negotiating team comprises Allama Nasir Abbas, Barrister Gohar, Asad Qaiser, Aamir Dogar and Salman Akram Raja.

During the session, Naqvi briefed participants on the national security and law-and-order situation in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa.

According to sources, the second round of negotiations will take place after Friday prayers.

Earlier, Federal Minister for Parliamentary Affairs Tariq Fazal Chaudhry said talks between the government and opposition were underway and that the sides were approaching the dialogue with optimism. He said resolving issues through dialogue was in the best interest of the country.

Chaudhry said a political approach should be adopted instead of repeatedly marching on Islamabad, adding that the negotiations would seek to move towards potential solutions.

Minister of State for Interior Talal Chaudhry said the prime minister had extended invitations for dialogue at every level and that there had never been any hesitation to engage in talks with parliamentary parties.

He urged all sides to resolve issues through dialogue within parliament and not to squander the opportunity.