TAXILA: Adviser to the Prime Minister on Law and Justice Barrister Aqeel Malik on Sunday said the release of PTI founder and former Prime Minister Imran Khan was not on agenda of talks between the government and PTI, but reaffirmed the government commitment to addressing opposition issues through constructive dialogue.

Talking to newsmen after inaugurating the passport counter at NADRA office Taxila on Sunday, he said that PML-N and its allies were serious about talks as solution to all political issues lies in negotiations.

“The PML-N leadership believes in resolving political issues through dialogue,” he added.

He said that the National Assembly Speakerhad offered his services, but the PML-N would make terms of reference (TORs) for the talks, adding that it was premature to say to what extent the negotiations will be successful.

Legal adviser to the government said a negotiation team was being formed but did not mention any possible committee members names, but said it would include ‘senior government leaders’ and ‘senior government allies’.

He was of the view that by adopting this conciliatory approach, the government aims to create a conducive environment for resolving outstanding issues and promoting national stability.

“We are committed to finding solutions through dialogue and are taking all matters seriously, including negotiations with PTI ,” he added. The PM’s aide, however, advised PTI to adopt a serious approach and refrain from using force or blackmail through civil disobedience, adding, instead, he urged them to come forward for negotiations if they are genuinely committed to finding a solution. Responding to a question, Barrister Aqeel Malik was of the view that the masterminds of the May 9 incidents must also be brought to justice adding that even if the party leadership or any central leader is involved in it, they should not be spared.

Responding to another question, he said that the government would address all concerns of JUI-F chief Maulana Fazlur Rehman in connection with the seminaries.

Responding to another question, he said that the economic situation of the country was on the way to improvement due to the policies of the federal government as economic indicators were on a positive trajectory.

Earlier, Barrister Aqeel inaugurated the passport counter at NADRA center. District President PMLN Malik Umar Farooq and DG Immigration Mustafa Kamal,Assistant Commissioner Wasiq Abbas, Chief Officer Municipal committee Henson Karamatand other local leaders of the party were also present on this occasion.

Published in Dawn, December 23rd, 2024