ISLAMABAD: The federal government has reiterated its readiness for serious negotiations with opposition parties, setting no preconditions for the talks. This message was delivered by Minister of State for Interior Senator Talal Chaudhry during a television interview on Saturday.
Core Agenda for National Dialogue
Speaking to a private news channel, the minister outlined that the agenda for any future dialogue would be established through mutual consultation. He emphasized that the discussions would concentrate on finding common ground and addressing pressing national concerns.
The core subjects for negotiation would include governance, legislation, counter-terrorism efforts, and the state of the economy. Chaudhry stressed that the conversation would be strictly limited to matters of national interest and causes that benefit Pakistan, not individual or case-specific demands.
Parliament as the Credible Forum
Talal Chaudhry identified the National Assembly as the most appropriate and credible platform for holding this dialogue. He mentioned that the Speaker’s Office has maintained communication channels and could play a pivotal role in facilitating the agenda-setting process.
He reminded the public that Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif had already extended a formal invitation for dialogue on the floor of the House, underscoring the government's consistent position.
Call for Seriousness and Responsibility
The Minister of State was critical of what he termed as the politics of hatred, chaos, and disorder, stating such approaches would not be tolerated. He claimed the opposition is currently grappling with internal confusion and a lack of clear authority within its leadership structure.
Chaudhry reiterated that for dialogue to be meaningful, it must be approached with utmost seriousness and a sense of responsibility. He affirmed that parliamentary platforms provide the most legitimate and effective space for resolving political differences in a democratic manner.
The minister's statements signal a continued effort by the ruling coalition to engage with political rivals, focusing on institutional mechanisms to address the country's challenges.
