PM Shehbaz Sharif Reiterates Offer for Dialogue with PTI, Sets Conditions

Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has reiterated his government’s willingness to engage in dialogue with the opposition Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI).

Addressing a federal cabinet meeting in Islamabad, he emphasised that political harmony is essential for national progress. PM Sharif recalled his repeated offers for talks. He stated, “if the PTI is ready for dialogue, the government is also prepared to sit with the party.”

However, he established clear boundaries. The Prime Minister asserted that “no blackmailing or unlawful actions will be tolerated” under the pretext of dialogue. He insisted discussions must be based solely on “legitimate matters.”

The cabinet meeting also addressed other key issues. PM Sharif expressed confidence that the successful bidding for Pakistan International Airlines (PIACL) would advance the government’s privatisation agenda.

Read: ATC Sentences PTI Leaders to 10 Years in May 9 Riots Case, Shah Mahmood Qureshi Acquitted

He described the PIA transaction as potentially the “biggest in the country’s history,” praising the transparent process.

Furthermore, the Prime Minister commented on the recent Saudi award conferred on the Chief of the Army Staff (COAS), General Syed Asim Munir. He termed it an “honour for the whole nation.”

Echoing the need for dialogue but adding a precondition, Information Minister Attaullah Tarar spoke on a separate talk show. He stated dialogue is necessary for stability, but demanded PTI first “apologise to the nation.”

Tarar accused PTI of running propaganda campaigns against state institutions. He urged the party to publicly disavow foreign-based social media accounts allegedly used for this purpose.