Govt reiterates offer for opposition talks

The government reiterated its willingness to engage in dialogue with the opposition leadership, claiming that the Prime Minister's House doors are always open for the National Assembly opposition leader.

"The government has always been ready for negotiations and continues to be so," Federal Minister for Parliamentary Affairs Tariq Fazal Chaudhry said on Friday while speaking at Parliament House.

The minister said discussions could take place at the Prime Minister's House or the Speaker's chamber, and the prime minister could even visit the opposition leader if required.

He revealed that efforts were underway to revive talks between the government and the opposition and PM's adviser Rana Sanaullah was trying to facilitate a meeting between Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and NA Leader of Opposition Mahmood Khan Achakzai.

Chaudhry said the government preferred resolving matters through consensus and expressed hope that meaningful consultations with the opposition on key appointments and national issues would lead to progress.

"The opposition has always run away from serious talks. However, Mahmood Khan Achakzai is a seasoned politician who has taken a serious attitude towards negotiations," he added.

He attributed delays in the meeting to Pakistan's diplomatic engagements and regional developments, including efforts related to ceasefire initiatives.

Highlighting international recognition, he claimed that even US President Donald Trump acknowledged Pakistan's diplomatic role, mentioning both Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and Chief of Defence Force General Syed Asim Munir.