Islamabad, January 30, 2025: Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has expressed his willingness to resume dialogue with Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) and has proposed the formation of a parliamentary committee to address ongoing political concerns.
Speaking at a federal cabinet meeting, PM Sharif recalled that discussions with PTI had previously commenced following the establishment of a committee in response to PTI’s initiative. He noted that PTI had submitted written demands through the Speaker, to which the government was prepared to respond in writing. However, the scheduled meeting on January 28 was unilaterally canceled by PTI.
The Prime Minister stressed the importance of responding in writing to written demands, highlighting a precedent from the 2018 elections when the opposition entered Parliament wearing black armbands. At the time, then-Prime Minister Imran Khan had formed a parliamentary committee to investigate election-related concerns, though no judicial commission was constituted.
PM Sharif urged PTI to return to the negotiation table, emphasizing the need to jointly form a new committee to examine both the 2018 and 2024 elections in pursuit of transparency and accountability.
During the meeting, the Prime Minister paid tribute to the Pakistani soldiers who were martyred while combating terrorism in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa. He underscored the nation’s responsibility to honor their sacrifices and reaffirm its commitment to national security.
PM Sharif also welcomed the State Bank of Pakistan’s decision to reduce the policy rate by 1%, though he suggested that a more substantial cut would have been advantageous for businesses and industries. Expressing optimism about the country’s economic trajectory, he reiterated the government’s commitment to fostering economic growth and stability.
Addressing the issue of human trafficking, the Prime Minister voiced deep concern over the tragic loss of hundreds of Pakistani lives due to illegal smuggling networks. He assured that the government was determined to eradicate human trafficking and would ensure that those responsible are brought to justice.
