Government and Opposition Begin Second Round of Talks

ISLAMABAD: The second round of talks between the government and the opposition began at the chamber of National Assembly Speaker Sardar Ayaz Sadiq with the democratic efforts of Chairman PPP Bilawal Bhutto Zardari.

Speaker Ayaz Sadiq is chairing the meeting. He said the previous day’s meeting was held in a pleasant atmosphere and expressed hope that all sides would continue the talks in the same spirit. The speaker thanked members of the government, Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP) and opposition for participating in the negotiations.

Federal ministers Amir Muqam, Rana Sanaullah, Mohsin Raza Naqvi, Talal Chaudhry and Tariq Fazal Chaudhry are representing the government. PPP representatives include Sherry Rehman, Naveed Qamar and Ejaz Hussain Jakhrani. The opposition delegation includes Barrister Gohar Khan, Raja Nasir Abbas, Aamir Dogar, Asad Qaiser, Haleem Adil Sheikh and Salman Akram Raja.

The first round of talks between the government and opposition was held a day earlier, but no agreement was reached. The second round was announced after the meeting. Speaking to the media upon arrival, Junaid Akbar said all members of Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) support positive dialogue. He said it was incorrect to give the impression that anyone in the party was against negotiations.

Barrister Gohar criticised remarks made by Defence Minister Khawaja Asif and urged him to review his statements. He said the statements made by some ministers had caused disappointment, but the talks would not fail. Gohar said the negotiations were not facing any delay and were important for the country, nation and democracy. He expressed hope that the second round would produce positive results.