Ruling coalition sans JUI, JWP open for ‘unconditional talks’ with PTI

ISLAMABAD: A day after the PML-N and the PPP promised to hold talks on “elections in one go,” the 13-party ruling alliance, with the exception of two parties, weighed in for holding unconditional talks with the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) on Tuesday. The coalition partners met at Prime Minister’s (PM) House to discuss the current political climate in the nation, Sirajul Haq’s suggestion to engage in political dialogue with the PTI, and PPP negotiations with political parties.

The allies reckoned that a gateway for dialogue was always open in politics adding that no conditions should be imposed to move forward. “We are ready to hold selfless and meaningful talks with political opponents,” it added. The PDM said those busy spreading hate were not serious about holding negotiations adding that the ruling alliance countered challenges it had faced during its one-year tenure. “We shall not leave the nation alone,” it added. Read Also:

Negotiations to be held under framework of elections: Fawad Chaudhry The coalition also reviewed prospects of opening backdoor channels for dialogue with the PTI. JUI-F, JWP keep away from dialogue The Jamiat Ulema Islam-Fazl (JUI-F), a partner the PDM chief Molana Fazlur Rehman belongs to, rejected the proposal to hold talks with the PTI as it reckoned that the PTI was not a political force. On the other hand, JWP chief Shahzain Bugti also kept away from holding dialogue saying that PTI chairman Imran Khan was “untrustworthy”.

Minister for External Affairs Bilawal Bhutto said it was not only against the PPP’s principles but also against the spirit of democracy. “It is the time for steering the country out of crisis through dialogue,” he added. Other parties also agreed to the PPP. However, the coalition would decide on holding dialogue with the PTI after all partners had voted in for it.