PM Shehbaz Stresses Legitimate Demands with PTI, Rejects Blackmail Tactics

Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has firmly stated that the government is open to talks with opposition party Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI), but only if their demands are legitimate, warning that any form of blackmail or political pressure will not be tolerated. The prime minister made these comments during a federal cabinet meeting, where he also discussed the government’s ongoing national development efforts and the importance of political unity for the country’s progress.

“The country must move forward, and the government is ready to take every step necessary for this,” Shehbaz Sharif emphasized, urging greater harmony among political parties to ensure lasting prosperity. He reiterated that political stability and unity are crucial for Pakistan’s continued development.

On the issue of Pakistan International Airlines (PIA) privatisation, the Prime Minister highlighted the significance of transparency in the bidding process. He reassured the cabinet that efforts were being made to ensure fairness and accountability in the process, with sealed bids already being received.

Turning to PTI’s demand for negotiations, Sharif clarified that while the government has extended an invitation for talks, “any negotiations would only be meaningful if PTI’s demands were legitimate and not based on political pressure or blackmail.” He further stressed, “If PTI is serious about negotiations, the government is also ready, but blackmail will not work.”

In addition, Prime Minister Sharif expressed grave concern over the rising threat of terrorism emanating from Afghanistan, calling on the international community to put pressure on the Afghan government to address this emerging danger. “A new threat of terrorism is emerging, and the international community should hold the Afghan government accountable for this,” he said, highlighting the growing regional security concerns.

The Prime Minister also took time to congratulate Pakistan’s national U-19 cricket team for their remarkable success in the Asia Cup, praising the players for their dedication and achievements. “All the players deserve our congratulations for their success,” he said, acknowledging their outstanding performance on the international stage.

In his address, Shehbaz Sharif made it clear that while the government is committed to national progress, it will not entertain any attempts at political blackmail, underlining the importance of a constructive, honest approach to negotiations and governance.