Imran Khan Terms Direct Talks with Establishment a Positive Step Toward Resolving Issues
Islamabad: Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif was briefed on the details of a recent meeting between Army Chief General Asim Munir and PTI leaders, a senior government source claimed.
Key Points:
- The PM was informed that no exclusive meeting between PTI leaders and the COAS was scheduled.
- Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP) Chief Minister Ali Amin Gandapur had requested a one-on-one meeting with the COAS.
- The COAS advised PTI leaders to discuss political matters with the government.
Meeting Details:
PTI Chairman Imran Khan confirmed that KP CM and Barrister Gohar met the COAS during his visit to Peshawar.
- According to Khan, Barrister Gohar presented all party matters and demands directly to General Munir.
- Gohar later clarified that security issues were discussed but did not elaborate on his role in the discussion.
Political Context:
- Imran Khan called direct negotiations with the establishment a constructive step toward resolving ongoing issues.
- PML-N leaders, including Rana Sanaullah and Irfan Siddiqui, emphasized that PTI was not encouraged to raise political issues.
- Sources indicated that backchannel talks between PTI and the government would continue, with a federal minister and two key figures expected to join the next meeting.
- The outcome of these discussions depends on PTI’s future policies and political approach.
