Interior Minister Chaudhry Nisar. PHOTO: FILE
Interior Minister Chaudhry Nisar on Wednesday reiterated the government’s stance that dialogue with the Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan cannot be initiated until the United States stopped drone strikes in Pakistan. His comments echoed the government’s stance on talks in light of the death of TTP leader Hakimullah Mehsud whom Nisar had earlier said was ready to begin peace talks.
“No peace initiative can be taken unless drone attacks are stopped,” Nisar said in a meeting with British High Commissioner Adam Thomson.
He added that the drones have sabotaged a peace initiative taken by the government after weeks of forming consensus in the All Parties Conference. He also said that while the government is committed to establishing peace in the region through dialogue, cooperation from the other side is also necessary for such an endeavour to succeed.
Thomson appreciated the efforts of the government to establish peace in the region and said that the UK is committed to playing a positive role to bring durable peace in the region. He also invited Nisar for an official visit to the UK.
Published in The Express Tribune, November 14th, 2013.
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I understand why the Taliban would say that - but it's a pathetic position to take if your the govt. Why not just turn over responsibility for running the govt to either the American's or Taliban since your apparently unwilling to do the job.
Steadfast, what a joke! Obama will send an emissary soon to coax Chaudhry Nisar to give up his rigid stand and begin the "negotiation". We are a confused Qaum!
Nisar Saheb, - have a consensus from all parties about the implementation of Sharia in Pakistan and there won't be any requirement to peace talk. Or why don't have an opinion survey /plebiscite on this issue? Sir what is your opinion whether this step will bring in peace or not ? No need to beg USA to stop drone strikes.If begging is necessary is it not better to beg the Muslim brethren (TTP) instead of USA and don't worry about the economy etc. Economy is a petty issue .
And of course the TTP will agree to not kill anyone, not kidnap anyone, not rob banks or attack jails to free imprisoned TTP types, not blow up schools, churches, markets etc, Waiting to hear that part of THE DEAL!!!