Govt offers olive branch to PTI

Musadik Malik reiterates govt's commitment to dialogue; urges Imran to de-escalate tensions

ISLAMABAD/LAHORE:

 

Minister for Petroleum Musadik Malik once again extended an olive branch to the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) on Saturday, stressing the importance of dialogue in resolving political discord.

He stressed that his party, the Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N), has never labelled “friends” associated with the Sunni Ittehad Council (SIC) as adversaries, adding that it in fact believed in the importance of political stability in Pakistan.

However, in the same breath, Malik lambasted the PTI for what he deemed as tarnishing the political landscape with its actions.

Speaking at a press conference, he said that the PML-N was committed to fostering reconciliation and dialogue in the realm of politics.

Malik urged PTI founder Imran Khan to de-escalate tensions and refrain from pursuing a confrontational approach. He called upon the former prime minister to disassociate himself from a controversial social media post attributed to him, referencing Sheikh Mujibur Rahman.

It is pertinent to note that the Federal Investigation Agency's (FIA) cybercrime cell wrote a letter seeking access to Imran Khan for an inquiry regarding a contentious post on his social media handle. The letter cited concerns over disseminating anti-state propaganda targeting institutions, particularly the Pakistan Army.

Addressing the media, Malik emphasised the importance of dialogue, asserting, "If you will not talk to us, will you talk to the walls?"

He reiterated PML-N's commitment to fostering a conducive environment for political discourse and proposed the establishment of a charter of economy and democracy.

Expressing dismay over what he termed as the PTI's selective approach towards dialogue, Malik accused the ruling party of reluctance to engage with the PML-N. He alleged that the PTI prioritised engagement with foreign entities over domestic political counterparts.

Asserting a willingness to engage with diverse political factions, Malik noted Nawaz Sharif's ascendancy to the presidency of the PML-N. He expressed openness to dialogue with groups such as SIC.

Additionally, Malik condemned the recent attack on PTI spokesperson Raoof Hasan, calling for a thorough investigation into the incident.

He reiterated his call for Imran Khan to deescalate tensions and disavow provocative statements, emphasising the imperative of constructive dialogue in navigating the country's political landscape.

He went on to mention that, as per the prime minister's directives, efforts are underway to provide relief to the populace, as exemplified by the recent reduction in petroleum prices.

Asserting a commitment to easing the burden on the less fortunate, he said that each ministry has been tasked with this endeavour.

Despite facing challenges, the government remains steadfast in its development initiatives, with the country witnessing a consistent decline in inflation rates, he added.

The federal minister noted a significant drop in inflation from 37 per cent to 17 per cent.

Furthermore, he remarked on the reduction in the current account deficit and expressed optimism about the increased interest of foreign investors in conducting business within Pakistan.

Kundi 'open to dialogue'

Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Governor Faisal Karim Kundi reiterated his openness to engage in dialogue with the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI), provided the party acknowledges past missteps.

"We are prepared to engage in discussions if PTI acknowledges its past errors. The party's constructive participation in Parliament is crucial, as mere noise-making yields no benefits," stated the governor during a press briefing in Lahore.

Governor Kundi's remarks follow PTI's persistent criticism of the federal government in Islamabad and the recent friction between the KP government and the Centre regarding outstanding dues owed to the province.

However, following a "productive" dialogue with Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi, both sides successfully resolved their differences, pledging joint efforts towards public welfare.

In contrast, Governor Kundi emphasized his desire to foster harmony between the provincial government and the Governor House in KP. "The Governor House of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa will not engage in any subversive activities."

He extended an invitation to K-P Chief Minister Ali Amin Gandapur to collaborate on development and peace initiatives in the province.

"I will serve as a mediator between the Centre and the province," affirmed the governor, disclosing his discussions with Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif concerning KP's challenges.

Regarding K-P's grievances towards Islamabad, Governor Kundi advised CM Gandapur to approach the federal government with well-reasoned arguments to facilitate problem-solving.

"I urged the K-P chief minister to engage with the federal government constructively. Consistent dialogue will lead to solutions," he asserted.

Expressing optimism about the federal government's commitment to addressing K-P's concerns, Governor Kundi underscored the importance of constructive engagement between political parties for the province's progress, peace, and prosperity.

Regarding the aftermath of the May 9 riots, Governor Kundi stressed the need for justice, advocating for the prosecution of all individuals involved in the violent incidents.

"All perpetrators of the May 9 incident must face consequences. Those orchestrating the May 9 tragedy must be held accountable first," he concluded during the press conference.