Shah Mahmood Qureshi dismisses support for Fawad Chaudhry’s panel, stresses dialogue

LAHORE: Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) Vice Chairman Shah Mahmood Qureshi on Friday said he could not deviate from party policy when asked whether he would support Fawad Chaudhry’s proposed National Dialogue Committee, while stressing that dialogue remains essential for the country’s progress.

Speaking informally to journalists inside the courtroom in Lahore, Qureshi said that as PTI’s vice chairman, he was bound by party decisions. However, he added that Pakistan must reflect on solutions to its challenges, noting that even after resistance, reconciliation ultimately takes place. “Only dialogue can move the country forward,” he said.

Negotiation mandate with Achakzai

Qureshi said PTI founder Imran Khan had authorised Mahmood Khan Achakzai to engage in negotiations on the party’s behalf. Referring to his own incarceration, Qureshi said leaders in jail often lacked access to information, adding that Achakzai was better placed to decide the next steps.

Responding to a question about Fawad Chaudhry meeting him, Qureshi said they had been members of the same party and that Chaudhry had also visited him during his hospitalisation. “If a guest comes to your home, what can you say, why did you come?” he remarked.

Afghanistan, Iran and regional security

On regional issues, Qureshi said Pakistan had extended significant support to Afghanistan but maintained that Kabul must ensure its soil is not used against Pakistan. He said Afghanistan’s prosperity and stability were linked to good relations with Pakistan and urged cooperation in counterterrorism efforts.

He added that the situation along the Iran border was currently under control.

India threat persists

Qureshi said Pakistan had prevailed in past conflicts with India and had been honoured by God, but warned that the threat from India had not yet subsided.