Islamabad: Prime Minister of Pakistan Shehbaz Sharif on Tuesday said his government is open to dialogue with the opposition Pakistan Tehreek-i-Insaf (PTI) to reduce political strain, days after party founder Imran Khan and his wife Bushra Bibi were sentenced to 17 years in prison each in a corruption case.
Speaking during a federal cabinet meeting in Islamabad, Sharif said PTI leaders have recently spoken about negotiations. He reiterated that the government is ready for talks if the opposition approaches them seriously.
Sharif said any dialogue must focus on legitimate concerns and not be driven by pressure tactics. He added that political consensus among parties is vital for Pakistan’s progress and stability.
The offer comes shortly after the opposition alliance Tehreek Tahafuz Ayeen-i-Pakistan, which includes PTI, said it was open to discussions. Despite repeated references to talks, neither side has taken concrete steps to begin negotiations.
Previous dialogue between the government and PTI in December last year collapsed over demands for judicial commissions to investigate protests held on May 9, 2023, and Nov. 26, 2024, as well as the release of PTI leaders in custody.
The renewed offer also comes ahead of expected protests by Khan’s supporters, following his call for nationwide demonstrations after his conviction.
Khan, 73, has been in jail since August 2023 and faces several cases filed after his removal from office in April 2022.
A court on Saturday sentenced Khan and Bushra Bibi in the Toshakhana-2 corruption case.
