National Assembly Speaker Ayaz Sadiq met Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and held wide-ranging discussions on parliamentary affairs, opposition talks, and regional diplomacy, sources said.
According to sources, the meeting focused on key parliamentary issues, including ongoing negotiations with Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI).
Matters related to the appointment of the opposition leader were also discussed in detail, with Ayaz Sadiq reiterating his position on engaging in dialogue with the opposition.
Briefing on Bangladesh visit
Ayaz Sadiq gave the prime minister a comprehensive briefing on his recent visit to Bangladesh, describing it as highly positive and effective from a diplomatic perspective. He told the prime minister that the people of Bangladesh welcomed him warmly and expressed goodwill toward Pakistan.
The speaker said he held pleasant and constructive meetings with Bangladesh’s chief adviser, advisers and other senior leadership. He also met with the son and other family members of former Bangladeshi prime minister Khaleda Zia, and conveyed messages of goodwill.
Informal interaction with Indian minister
Ayaz Sadiq also took the prime minister into confidence regarding a brief and informal interaction with Indian External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar. According to the speaker, Jaishankar himself came to his seat, shook hands, introduced himself, and the interaction lasted only six to seven seconds.
The speaker told the prime minister that he adopted a very cautious approach during the brief exchange.
He added that Jaishankar appeared to have come with full preparation and a clear plan, which he found surprising given the very short duration of the meeting.
Prime Minister Sharif congratulated Ayaz Sadiq on what he termed a successful and positive visit to Bangladesh. He said Pakistan would further strengthen bilateral relations with Bangladesh in all fields, including political, economic and diplomatic cooperation.
Parliamentary ties termed essential
The PM stressed that promoting parliamentary relations between Pakistan and Bangladesh is indispensable. He added that he has always had pleasant and constructive engagements with Bangladesh’s chief adviser and welcomed closer institutional cooperation.
Sources said Ayaz Sadiq once again emphasized the importance of talks with the opposition as part of strengthening parliamentary democracy.
The meeting concluded with a shared understanding on advancing diplomacy, dialogue and parliamentary engagement at home and abroad.
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