ISLAMABAD: Government, Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP) and opposition representatives continued negotiations on Saturday in an effort to reduce political tensions, with the proposed Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) long march remaining one of the central issues between the two sides.
The second round of talks was held at the National Assembly Speaker’s Chamber under the chairmanship of Speaker Sardar Ayaz Sadiq.
The negotiations followed the first round on Friday, which ended without a breakthrough but with both sides agreeing to continue dialogue.
In this regard, Speaker Ayaz Sadiq thanked members of the government, PPP and opposition for participating in the negotiations. He expressed hope that the talks would continue in a constructive and cordial atmosphere.
The government delegation included Federal Ministers Amir Muqam, Rana Sanaullah, Mohsin Naqvi, Talal Chaudhry and Tariq Fazal Chaudhry. PPP was represented by Sherry Rehman, Naveed Qamar and Aijaz Hussain Jakhrani.
The opposition delegation included Barrister Gohar Khan, Raja Nasir Abbas, Amir Dogar, Asad Qaiser, Haleem Adil Sheikh and Salman Akram Raja.
The planned PTI long march towards Islamabad remained a major obstacle in the negotiations.
The government has been urging the opposition to postpone or call off the October 4 protest, while PTI representatives have maintained that their political concerns must be addressed through negotiations.
Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Chief Minister Sohail Afridi has separately announced plans for the march, saying it would begin from Gandi Chowk in Lakki Marwat on October 4. He has also said he would lead the convoy.
During the discussions, government representatives reportedly raised concerns over statements attributed to PTI leaders and the planned protest. Amir Muqam questioned whether the opposition negotiating team had sufficient authority to advance an agreement while the long march remained scheduled.
PPP has also called for the long march to be withdrawn without conditions, arguing that doing so would create space for further political dialogue.
Talks Continue as Political Tensions Remain
Despite disagreements, both sides have continued to engage through the negotiating process.
The opposition had also proposed limiting media statements during the talks and issuing a joint statement afterward to reduce confusion over the discussions.
ALSO READ: Talks or Showdown? Government Warns Against Long March as Atta Tarar Calls for Political Dialogue
With the proposed October 4 march approaching, the negotiations have assumed added importance. The immediate focus remains on whether the government and opposition can narrow their differences over the protest and broader political demands while keeping the dialogue process intact.
