PML-N Senator Irfan Siddiqui expressed optimism over ongoing negotiations between the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) and the government.
Speaking on the program 'Nadeem Malik Live' on Samaa TV, Siddiqui described the latest session as significant progress, Senator Irfan Siddiqui, stating, "Today was a very good day in the history of Pakistan."
Highlighting the open nature of the talks, Siddiqui clarified, "We are not pretending but negotiating with an open heart. We have not received any suggestions or hints. Our leadership has directed us to go to any extent to resolve the issues."
He emphasized that the PML-N has placed no demands on PTI and has instead urged the party to present its demands in a coherent, written form for further consideration.
The PML-N leader said the PTI has demanded the formation of a commission to investigate incidents from May 9 and November 26, along with the release of its detained founder, Imran Khan. Siddiqui assured that these demands would be evaluated thoroughly. "The release of the PTI founder will be discussed in the talks," Siddiqui stated.
"We will consider the list of cases after receiving it and reach a logical conclusion. It will be seen to what extent the demands are possible," he said, adding that the government has not given any negative opinions on the PTI's stance.
Siddiqui dismissed suggestions of interference by former prime minister Nawaz Sharif or any direct involvement of the establishment in the negotiations. He also confirmed that the PML-N has not asked PTI to halt its public speeches or social media campaigns during the negotiation process.
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"I have no connection with the establishment regarding the negotiations. I cannot say anything about whether the PTI or the government has any communication with the establishment. We have not received any suggestion or hint for negotiations," he stated further.
Describing the dialogue as a positive beginning, Siddiqui stressed the importance of mutual understanding. "Fighting is the easy way; understanding is needed in negotiations," he remarked, adding that while the process is challenging, it holds the promise of a constructive outcome.
The upcoming meeting scheduled for January 2 is expected to be pivotal in advancing these discussions. Siddiqui concluded with cautious optimism, saying, "Good wishes can be expressed for these negotiations, but much work remains to be done."
Salman Akram Raja
PTI leader Salman Akram Raja has reaffirmed his party’s commitment to the ongoing negotiations with the government, despite logistical challenges and unresolved issues.
Speaking about the latest developments on the same show, Raja stated, "I have no reservations regarding the talks," but noted that he, along with other PTI representatives, could not attend the recent session due to prior commitments.
Raja clarified that he was in Lahore at the time, while Ali Amin was engaged in a cabinet meeting, and Barrister Gohar had court-related obligations. He expressed disappointment that the talks were held earlier thanthe PTI had suggested, saying, "We had said that the talks should be held tomorrow instead of today."
Key demands and concerns
During the negotiations, he said, the PTI has maintained its focus on the release of political prisoners, including its founder, Imran Khan, who the party insists should be granted bail.
Raja emphasized, "We are not just talking about the founder; we are advocating for the release of all political prisoners." He further revealed that consultations with Imran Khan are ongoing, despite limited access. "Our political leadership has not been allowed to meet the founder for three months," he added.
The senior lawyer said the PTI also opposes the establishment of military courts, which Raja claims are "not acceptable to the world." He criticized the judicial system, stating, "The way the judicial system is being run is not right," and called for adherence to the Constitution and the rule of law to move the country forward.
Challenges in negotiations
Raja acknowledged the complexity of the negotiations but reiterated PTI’s principled stance, asserting, "We will not deviate from our stand." He expressed concern over the lack of political space in the country, insisting, "Political space must be restored."
Addressing the economic dimension, Raja commented on PTI’s call to halt remittances, which remains unchanged. "There is no question of suspending the call to stop remittances," he stated.
Looking ahead, Raja emphasized the importance of timely and meaningful dialogue. "The next session should have been held before January 2," he remarked.
