Defence Minister Khawaja Muhammad Asif said on Wednesday that Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif continues to invite Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) for political dialogue. He expressed hope that talks could lead to positive and meaningful outcomes for the country.
In a post on X, Khawaja Asif stated that PM Shehbaz has repeatedly offered negotiations to the opposition party. He said the government remains open to dialogue despite ongoing political tensions.
However, Asif questioned PTI’s willingness to engage in talks. He claimed that negotiation requires compromise and mutual understanding. According to him, this approach is missing in PTI’s political conduct.
The defence minister also criticised PTI founder Imran Khan. He alleged that Imran Khan’s political decisions have always focused on personal interests. Asif said negotiations depend on give-and-take, which he believes PTI leadership does not accept.
Asif further stated that successful dialogue needs flexibility and respect for democratic norms. He claimed that personal gain often takes priority over principles in PTI’s politics. Despite these concerns, the government has not withdrawn its offer of talks.
Meanwhile, the National Dialogue Committee (NDC) welcomed the prime minister’s renewed call for negotiations. The committee said political dialogue is necessary to reduce polarization and restore stability.
In a letter addressed to PM Shehbaz, the NDC appreciated the government’s willingness to engage the opposition. The committee includes senior PTI figures Fawad Chaudhry, Imran Ismail, and Mahmood Maulvi.
The NDC stressed that talks can only succeed with confidence-building measures. It urged the government to consider the release of imprisoned senior PTI leaders. According to the committee, such steps would create a more positive atmosphere for dialogue.
The committee also emphasized that sustainable negotiations require trust from both sides. It said political differences should be resolved through discussion, not confrontation.
Political observers say the renewed call for talks comes at a critical time. The country faces economic and governance challenges that need broad political consensus.
So far, PTI has not issued a formal response to the latest offer. However, the government maintains that PM Shehbaz remains committed to dialogue in the national interest.
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The situation now depends on whether both sides can move beyond blame and engage constructively. Many believe that meaningful talks could help ease political uncertainty and strengthen democratic processes.
