Numerous parliamentarians have echoed the advice of business leaders to renew trade relations with neighboring India and reconcile with imprisoned former Prime Minister Imran Khan, urging PM Shehbaz to take action.
Independent lawmaker Faisal Vawda emphasized the significance of considering the suggestions put forth by the business community, noting their valuable experience.
Arif Habib, head of Arif Habib Group, recommended that Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif take proactive steps towards reconciliation during his visit to Karachi. He encouraged engaging in trade with India and reconciling with Imran Khan, currently incarcerated. Such actions, he believed, would bolster both the economy and political stability.
Prime Minister Shehbaz, while appreciating reconciliation efforts, refrained from directly addressing these proposals during the meeting but assured that they were duly noted for fostering economic growth.
The diplomatic rift between Pakistan and India, stemming from India’s revocation of Kashmir’s special status in 2019, led to the suspension of bilateral trade and downgraded relations.
Imran Khan, serving a prison sentence, has faced numerous legal challenges, with calls from his party members for his release.
Vawda, having previously been affiliated with Khan’s party, expressed support for such statements, highlighting the positive impact of constructive suggestions.
PPP leader Sharmila Farooqui acknowledged the potential benefits of resuming trade with India but emphasized the importance of parliamentary consensus on the matter.
Advocating for regional peace, Farooqui stressed the need for amicable relations not only with India but also with neighboring countries like Iran and Afghanistan.
Lawmakers underscored the importance of fostering friendly relations with neighboring nations, including Muslim states, to enhance regional stability.
While acknowledging the potential for improved relations, concerns were raised regarding India’s decision on Kashmir, deemed crucial for significant progress.
Emphasizing the value of peaceful dialogue, a religious-political party lawmaker advocated for constructive engagement to unify political parties.
A lawmaker from PTI urged for improved conduct in Parliament, suggesting that internal conflicts hinder resolution of critical matters.
Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz emphasized the importance of fostering friendship over conflict, citing her father Nawaz Sharif’s stance during her visit to Kartarpur Gurudwara.
Farhan Jeffery, Deputy Director of the UK-based think tank Islamic Theology of Counter Terrorism, commented on Pakistan’s predicament, attributing it to overextension and internal challenges.
In other news, Pakistan’s Special Representative on Afghanistan Ambassador Asif Durrani highlighted the toll of internal strife, surpassing that of conflicts with India. He underscored the significant losses incurred during the War on Terror, necessitating a reevaluation of foreign relations.
Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar, addressing inquiries about ties with India in London, emphasized the need for consultation regarding trade and economic activities.
