ISLAMABAD: Two meetings have taken place between representatives of the government and Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) to discuss the potential initiation of a dialogue process.
Following recent contact between the two sides, these meetings were held to explore the possibility of opening a dialogue. If both sides agree to proceed, it could mark a significant breakthrough and potentially lead to the cancellation of PTI’s planned protest march on November 24. Should the ongoing pre-dialogue consultations reach a consensus on formal talks, the parties will seek final approval from their respective leaderships.
For PTI, this means the individuals involved in the discussions will need to get approval from Imran Khan. On the government side, the person handling the negotiations will require approval from the Prime Minister or relevant establishment figures to proceed with the dialogue.
Most government officials, including the majority of cabinet ministers, are not aware of these talks. However, Imran Khan is fully informed and aware of the representatives currently engaged in the discussions. It remains unclear who else in PTI is privy to these developments.
According to reports, following the initial contact, two meetings have already been held. The first involved just two representatives, one from each side, while the second meeting included three individuals. These talks are being conducted at a high level.
If a breakthrough occurs, the dialogue process will officially begin. However, it is understood that no direct talks will take place between PTI and the establishment. Both parties are clear that there will be no immediate acceptance of PTI’s demands prior to the start of formal discussions.
While PTI may publicly state otherwise, both Imran Khan and those involved in the current negotiations are aware that there will be no pre-conditions involving the acceptance of demands before dialogue.
Sources indicate that if the dialogue proceeds, both sides will present their demands, which will be reviewed before formal engagement in the negotiation process. The names of the individuals currently involved in these high-level pre-dialogue talks are known, but the sources have requested that they remain confidential.
PTI representatives who are disputing The News’ report on the “high-level contact” between the government and PTI should inquire with their leadership, such as Chief Minister KP Ali Amin Gandapur and PTI Chairman Barrister Gohar Ali Khan, regarding the unscheduled two-hour meeting with Imran Khan on Tuesday. On Wednesday, the two PTI leaders again met with Imran Khan to discuss the progress of the pre-dialogue talks with the government.
