As the PTI initiates talks with its bitter rival JUI-F, a faction within PML-N has also advised the Sharif family to extend an olive branch to Imran Khan’s party, a party leader has told Dawn.

However, any thaw in the animosity between the two parties is unlikely in the near future as the leadership is “in no mood” to extend any friendly gestures to the PTI.

The initial suggestion for a reconciliatory approach with all parties was proffered by senior PML-N leader Khawaja Saad Rafique, who proposed the idea of a national government, having representation of all parties, including the PTI-backed independent candidates who won on Feb 8.

Similar sentiments were expressed by another PML-N leader, who said that the fight with PTI “needs to end”.

On the flip side, a PML-N leader close to Maryam Nawaz Sharif told Dawn that the leadership was in no mood for reconciliation with Mr Khan’s party.

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