No room for blackmail, talks with PTI must be on legitimate demands: PM

ISLAMABAD: Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has given a firm stance on negotiations with the opposition party Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI). He said that talks could only take place on legitimate demands, warning that blackmail tactics under the guise of talks would not be tolerated.

His comments came during a federal cabinet meeting, where he also discussed the government’s ongoing efforts for national development and the need for political unity for the country’s progress.

The prime minister said that steps are being taken for the betterment of the country, urging for greater harmony among political parties to ensure lasting prosperity. “The country must move forward, and the government is ready to take every step necessary for this,” Shehbaz Sharif said.

Addressing the issue of Pakistan International Airlines (PIA) privatisation, the premier highlighted the importance of transparency in the bidding process. He announced that the process was moving forward with sealed bids and that cabinet members had worked diligently to ensure fairness and accountability in the process.

Turning to the topic of PTI’s calls for negotiations, Prime Minister Sharif reiterated that the government had extended an invitation for talks from the floor of the assembly. He noted, however, that any negotiations would only be meaningful if PTI’s demands were legitimate and not based on political pressure or blackmail. “If PTI is serious about negotiations, the government is also ready, but blackmail will not work,” the Prime Minister asserted.

On a separate matter, Shehbaz Sharif raised concerns about a new wave of terrorism emerging from Afghan soil, urging the international community to exert pressure on the Afghan government to address the growing threat. “A new threat of terrorism is emerging, and the international community should hold the Afghan government accountable for this,” he said, signaling growing regional security concerns.

Prime Minister Sharif also took a moment to congratulate Pakistan’s national U-19 cricket team for their outstanding performance in the Asia Cup. “All the players deserve our congratulations for their success,” he said, praising the young athletes for their dedication and achievements.