Zardari discusses Punjab politics with Shujaat

LAHORE:

Former president and PPP Co-chairman Asif Ali Zardari on Friday met PML-Q chief Chaudry Shujaat Hussain at his residence. The meeting primarily revolved around exchanging pleasantries, according to insiders.

Zardari arrived in Lahore on Wednesday to assess the political landscape in the province and explore potential alliances. He first visited Ayaz Sadiq, a senior PML-N leader, to express condolences over the death of Sadiq's brother. Later in the day, he went to Chaudry Shujaat Hussain's residence to inquire after his health.

The meeting at Shujaat's residence lasted for approximately 30 minutes and garnered significant attention. However, insiders revealed that the discussion focused on his well-being and friendly exchanges.

Zardari spoke highly of Chaudry Sarwar, the former Punjab governor, for his decision to join the PML-Q. During the meeting, Zardari expressed regret over Chaudhry Pervaiz Elahi's choice to join the PTI. There were no discussions regarding forming alliances or political plans.

In addition to Chaudry Shujaat Hussain, Federal Minister Chaudry Salik Hussain, Chaudry Shafi Hussain, and former governor Chaudry Sarwar were present at the meeting, which lasted for about half an hour.

It is worth mentioning that the PML-Q recently emphasised the importance of convening an All-Parties Conference (APC).

Earlier in the day, Zardari also met with Faisal Mir, a provincial leader of the PPP. Party sources claim that after achieving success in southern Punjab by attracting 25 leaders, the party is now focusing on central Punjab and making efforts to bring more leaders into its fold.

Zardari is expected to stay in Lahore until Sunday. Media reports indicate that Chaudry Shujaat Hussain has demanded a pro-people budget and an increase in government servants' salaries. Shujaat emphasised that the government has the primary responsibility to curb inflation and stabilize the economy.