Govt Negotiating for Pakistan’s Interests, Not Any Individual or Party: Senator Irfan Siddiqui
Islamabad:The government committee negotiating with Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) has emphasized that its efforts are for the betterment of Pakistan, not for any specific party or individual. Senator Irfan Siddiqui, the spokesperson for the committee, made these remarks while speaking on a Geo News program.
Siddiqui stated that the willingness of both parties to engage in dialogue is a significant achievement. “It’s always productive when both sides sit face-to-face, share a cup of tea, and engage in good conversations. For the committee, we have put past events behind us, and we have not yet drafted a ‘Charter of Demands’,” he said.
He further added, “We are negotiating for Pakistan’s future, not for any individual or party. The Charter of Democracy was agreed upon with Benazir Bhutto, and later, even Imran Khan agreed to it. Khyber Pakhtunkhwa has been severely affected by the scourge of terrorism, and there are areas where we do not have any disagreements. We were always open to negotiations, as Nawaz Sharif himself mentioned in his first speech.”
Siddiqui reiterated that the goal was national, and the government was committed to addressing the country’s issues through dialogue.
**PTI Leader Shoaib Yousafzai Calls for Judicial Investigation into 9 May and 26 November Incidents**
Meanwhile, PTI leader Shoaib Yousafzai, commenting on the ongoing negotiations, criticized the government, claiming that Defence Minister Khawaja Asif fears the political rise of Rehana Dar, which is why he doesn’t want the talks to succeed. “The economic problems will only end when political stability is achieved. And that can only happen when all sides sit down and talk,” Yousafzai argued.
He also demanded an investigation into the incidents of 9 May and 26 November, saying, “The blame for these events is being unfairly placed on us, so why not have an inquiry? A judicial commission should be formed to get to the truth and clarify the matter.” Yousafzai also took issue with government ministers, accusing them of continually making provocative statements. “The government needs to rein in its ministers who keep attacking us. As for social media, it is out of our control, and many people are expressing their anger towards the government online.”
**On the Situation in Kurram: PTI Leader Highlights Ongoing Efforts**
Speaking about the situation in Kurram, Yousafzai noted that one of the parties involved in the ongoing negotiations had requested 2-3 days for consultations. “In Kurram, even diapers are being delivered to children amidst the ongoing efforts,” he added, emphasizing the government’s commitment to addressing the region’s needs.
Yousafzai also stressed that political dialogue was the key to resolving Pakistan’s current challenges and ensuring long-term stability.
