Lahore: Former Foreign Minister and PTI leader Shah Mahmood Qureshi stated that dialogue is not a necessity for Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) but for Pakistan itself. He warned that the failure of negotiations could pose a serious threat to democracy.
Speaking outside an anti-terrorism court in Lahore, Qureshi said, “Pakistan is at a critical juncture. I pray the talks reach a logical conclusion because the country needs these negotiations, not PTI.”
He stressed the importance of productive dialogue, warning that a failure to reach positive outcomes would destabilize the government and jeopardize democratic progress. “Let the negotiations proceed; whether the government completes its term or not is a secondary issue,” he added.
Qureshi highlighted PTI’s commitment to sincere dialogue in the country’s best interest, stating, “Imran Khan’s vision and decisions are for the nation’s welfare. Those who claim to champion democracy must approach these talks with seriousness.”
He further called for the release of political prisoners, emphasizing, “Even murder suspects are granted bail. We have been in jail for over a year and a half without bail or the commencement of our cases.”
Addressing PPP Chairman Bilawal Bhutto-Zardari, Qureshi remarked, “Bilawal should understand what the nation needs. Throughout history, civil-military cooperation has been essential for progress. Political wisdom is the need of the hour.”
