PTI’s aim was to reach establishment, and they have succeeded: Khawaja Asif

Defence Minister Khawaja Asif stated on Tuesday that Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) has succeeded in its aim of establishing contact with the country's establishment, Express News reported.

Speaking to the media outside the Parliament House on Monday, he commented on PTI’s ongoing negotiations with the government. “PTI has confirmed that they have made contact with the establishment. If that is the case, what is the need for negotiations with us?” he asked.

Asif remarked that PTI’s goal was to reach the establishment, and they have achieved it. “Negotiations are part of politics, but their efforts were focused elsewhere,” he added.

Regarding external pressures, he reiterated Pakistan’s stance on sovereignty. “If there is any foreign demand for the release of PTI’s leader, we will act in line with our national interests. We do not interfere in others’ domestic matters, and we will not tolerate interference in ours,” he said.

Asif also addressed inquiries about the Sharif brothers, stating that their meetings are a normal occurrence as they are family.

“During PTI’s negotiations with us, cases against their leadership were ongoing, and witnesses had already testified,” he said, adding that PTI had acknowledged that case decisions would not impact negotiations.

The defence minister concluded by underscoring the importance of preserving Pakistan’s internal and external interests while refusing any external pressure.