ISLAMABAD: Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has approved the initiation of negotiations between the federal government and Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI). According to official sources, National Assembly Speaker Sardar Ayaz Sadiq has been authorized to lead the dialogue process, and the government team is prepared to engage whenever formally invited by the Speaker.
Government officials clarified that talks will be held strictly with PTI’s elected representatives, and no discussions will take place with unelected individuals. Sources from the Speaker’s office stated that PTI has not yet made any formal contact to begin negotiations. However, the parliamentary committee remains intact, and the Speaker is ready to convene a meeting immediately if the opposition signals willingness.
Despite repeated invitations, opposition leaders have so far not approached the Speaker. PTI’s last engagement with him was related to the appointment of Mahmood Khan Achakzai as opposition leader.
Meanwhile, Adviser to the Prime Minister on Political Affairs Senator Rana Sanaullah stated that the government remains fully committed to political dialogue and democratic progress. He reiterated that negotiations are the responsibility of political parties, not state institutions, and emphasized that the government is open to talks if PTI chooses dialogue over street agitation.
