PM Shehbaz Sharif
ISLAMABAD: Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has reiterated that the government is ready for dialogue with Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI), stressing that political harmony among all parties is essential for Pakistan’s progress and prosperity.
Addressing a federal cabinet meeting in Islamabad, the prime minister said the offer for talks had been extended repeatedly and remains open. He made it clear, however, that dialogue cannot be conducted under pressure, blackmail, or unlawful actions and must be based strictly on legitimate and constitutional matters.The statement once again placed political dialogue at the centre of the government’s stated approach to addressing ongoing political tensions in the country.
PM Shehbaz Sharif Reiterates Openness to Talks
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif told cabinet members that Pakistan’s development and stability depend on cooperation and harmony among political forces. He said that engaging in dialogue was necessary for strengthening democratic norms and addressing national challenges.
The prime minister recalled that he had extended invitations for talks not only through public statements but also on the floor of the National Assembly. He said that if PTI shows willingness for dialogue, the government is prepared to sit with the party.
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However, he stressed that any engagement must be constructive and lawful. “There will be no tolerance for blackmail or unlawful actions in the name of dialogue,” he said, adding that discussions must revolve around legitimate concerns.
means rather than confrontation.
Dialogue Linked to National Prosperity
The prime minister emphasised that political stability is directly linked to economic growth and national prosperity. He said Pakistan requires unity and cooperation to move forward, especially at a time when the country faces economic and governance challenges.
He reiterated his commitment to engaging all political parties for the country’s welfare, stating that dialogue is the only way to reduce political polarization.
The federal cabinet meeting also reviewed key political and economic issues facing the country, including reforms and ongoing government initiatives.
Atta Tarar Calls for PTI Apology
Meanwhile, Minister for Information and Broadcasting Attaullah Tarar said that while dialogue is necessary for political stability, PTI must first apologise to the nation.
Speaking on ARY News programme Aiteraz Hai, Tarar accused PTI of actions that he said had damaged Pakistan’s image internationally. He alleged that propaganda campaigns targeting the Pakistan Army and the Field Marshal were being run through social media accounts allegedly operated from the United Kingdom and the United States.
Tarar urged PTI leadership to publicly distance itself from such narratives and platforms before expecting talks to move forward. He said political dialogue cannot take place while what he described as anti-state propaganda continues.
His comments added another layer to the ongoing debate over the conditions and environment required for meaningful political negotiations.
Government Rules Out Blackmail
Reaffirming the government’s stance, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif later said that while the door to talks remains open, blackmail under the guise of negotiations will not be accepted under any circumstances.
He said dialogue must be conducted with seriousness and sincerity and aimed at resolving legitimate political issues rather than creating instability.
The prime minister’s remarks came amid continued calls from various political circles for talks to ease tensions and restore political normalcy.
PIA Privatisation Discussed
During the cabinet meeting, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif also discussed the privatisation of Pakistan International Airlines Corporation Limited (PIACL).
He described the PIA privatisation as the biggest transaction in the country’s history and expressed confidence that successful bidding would help advance Pakistan’s broader privatisation agenda.
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The prime minister praised cabinet members and relevant authorities for ensuring transparency throughout the process. He said transparency was essential to attract credible investors and ensure public confidence in the privatisation effort.
The government has previously stated that privatisation is a key component of its economic reform strategy aimed at reducing losses and improving efficiency in state-owned enterprises.
Saudi Honour for Army Chief
On the occasion, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif also congratulated Chief of Army Staff and Chief of Defence Forces Field Marshal Syed Asim Munir on receiving the King Abdulaziz Award from Saudi Arabia.
He described the conferment of the award as an honour not only for the Field Marshal but for the entire nation. The prime minister said the recognition reflects Pakistan’s strong ties with Saudi Arabia and the international acknowledgment of Pakistan’s leadership.
Political Landscape Remains Tense
Despite repeated offers for dialogue, political divisions remain deep, with both sides setting conditions for talks. While the government insists that negotiations must take place without pressure or unlawful actions, PTI leaders have continued to raise concerns over governance and political accountability.
Observers say that any breakthrough will depend on whether both sides can agree on a framework for talks that addresses core political issues while maintaining constitutional order.
For now, the government’s message remains consistent: it is ready for dialogue with PTI, but only within the bounds of law, legitimacy, and national interest.
