Gilani urges PM to hold talks with PTI

Senate Chairman Yousuf Raza Gilani has urged Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif to hold talks with all political parties, including Imran Khan's PTI, to forge national unity.

"Politicians should engage in dialogue with each other. At this time, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif should lead the negotiations among political parties. He needs to take action because, right now, he is the captain of the team and must make a decision," Gilani said on Sunday.

The PPP leader who also served as the country's prime minister during the PPP's rule between 2008 till 2012, was addressing an event in Islamabad.

According to Gilani, if the prime minister makes a decision to hold dialogues, the PPP will support him on matters of national security and national affairs.

"All parties must unite on a one-point agenda for the security and protection of the country, setting aside their differences. The PPP has always engaged in dialogue. We talked with [PML-N President] Nawaz Sharif while in opposition and signed the Charter of Democracy," he said.

He said they wanted to serve the country and the nation together and needed to set aside their differences and work for the people. "Positions come and go, but we must prioritize the welfare of the country and the nation."

The Senate chairman said economic development depends on the continuity of policies, and for the country's progress, everyone must play their part together.

"You may disagree with any leader, but not with Pakistan. You can disagree with me or anyone else, but there can be no disagreement with the country."

Addressing the country's neighbors, he said they must understand that Pakistan is a peace-loving country and does not wish to fight with anyone but if there is any kind of attack on Pakistan, the nation will unite to respond.

"The people of Pakistan want the country to prosper and flourish. We have built this country to keep it strong and are ready to make any sacrifice for its defense," he said.

Gilani urged the youth not to be misled by anyone. Your respect, he said, is tied to the existence of Pakistan, which is a nuclear power, with a Constitution, courts, and all necessary institutions.