Talks between the government and Jamaat-e-Islami (JI) on relief measures related to high petroleum prices have been delayed once again. The government requested an additional day to prepare for the next round of negotiations.
The third round of talks was initially scheduled for Monday. However, it has now been postponed until Tuesday on the directives of Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif.
The delay follows two rounds of negotiations that ended without a breakthrough. Meanwhile, JI has maintained pressure on the government and plans to hold a long march towards Islamabad on September 20.
Government Seeks More Time for Discussions
Planning Minister Ahsan Iqbal contacted JI Deputy Emir Liaquat Baloch to convey the prime minister’s message. According to Baloch, the prime minister requested that discussions on the petroleum levy take place on Tuesday.
Baloch said the government had established one committee to negotiate with JI. Additionally, two separate committees were formed to address the petroleum levy and independent power producers (IPPs).
He added that talks on the petroleum levy would take place on Tuesday. Discussions regarding IPPs are expected to follow on Wednesday.
Focus to Remain on Petroleum Levy
Sources said the upcoming meeting will primarily focus on JI’s demands regarding the petroleum levy. Both sides are also expected to discuss proposals currently under government consideration.
The government’s negotiating team includes Planning Minister Ahsan Iqbal, Adviser to the Prime Minister Rana Sanaullah, Petroleum Minister Ali Pervaiz Malik and Minister of State for Finance Bilal Azhar Kayani.
Meanwhile, Liaquat Baloch heads the JI delegation. Other members include Syed Firasat Shah, Nasrullah Randhawa, Inayatullah Khan, Ziauddin Ansari Advocate, Naveed Ali Baig and Shahid Naeem.
The next round of talks will be closely watched as both sides attempt to reach an understanding on fuel-related relief measures and other economic concerns.
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