ISLAMABAD: Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has expressed his willingness to resume talks with Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) and suggested forming a parliamentary committee to address ongoing political issues. During a federal cabinet meeting, PM Sharif reflected on earlier discussions with PTI, which were initiated with the formation of a committee after PTI’s offer for dialogue.
The Prime Minister noted that PTI had submitted written demands through the Speaker of the National Assembly, which a government committee was expected to respond to in writing. However, PTI canceled a scheduled meeting on January 28, causing a delay in addressing these concerns.
PM Sharif emphasized that it was only logical to respond in writing to written demands and recalled the formation of a parliamentary committee following the 2018 elections. He reminded the cabinet that, after the opposition entered Parliament wearing black armbands, then-Prime Minister Imran Khan had initiated a parliamentary committee to investigate election-related concerns. He pointed out that despite the formation of the committee, PTI had never set up a judicial commission.
The Prime Minister urged PTI to resume dialogue and work together on forming a new committee to investigate both the 2018 and 2024 elections to uncover the truth.
During the meeting, PM Sharif also paid tribute to the sacrifices made by Pakistani soldiers who were martyred while fighting terrorists in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa. He underscored the nation’s duty to honor these fallen heroes.
Additionally, PM Sharif welcomed the State Bank of Pakistan's decision to reduce the policy rate by 1%. He remarked that a more significant cut would have benefitted businesses and industries but expressed optimism about the country’s economic future.
The Prime Minister also addressed the grave issue of human trafficking, expressing deep concern over the loss of hundreds of Pakistani lives due to illegal smuggling operations. He assured the public that the government was committed to eradicating human trafficking and bringing those responsible to justice.
