ISLAMABAD: In the first formal contact between the government and the opposition after months of political sparring, Special Assistant to the Prime Minister on Political Affairs Rana Sanaullah Khan met Leader of the Opposition in the National Assembly Mahmood Khan Achakzai at Parliament House on Friday.
According to sources in the opposition alliance, the meeting was held in a cordial and relaxed atmosphere, raising hopes of a possible thaw in the tense political climate. Minister for Parliamentary Affairs Dr Tariq Fazal Chaudhry was also present and is said to have played a role in facilitating the meeting.
Sources said both sides exchanged views on the prevailing political situation, key opposition demands, and a potential framework for structured negotiations. The possibility of a meeting between Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and Mahmood Achakzai — who also heads the opposition alliance Tehreek Tahaffuz Aiyeen-e-Pakistan — was also discussed.
Participants deliberated on confidence-building measures aimed at reducing political tensions and revitalising the parliamentary forum. The health condition and prison facilities of PTI founder Imran Khan also came under discussion, with the opposition leader reportedly expressing reservations. The government side, however, reiterated its commitment to moving the dialogue process forward.
Another round of talks is expected in the coming days to formalise a negotiation agenda, potentially paving the way for a meeting between the prime minister and the opposition leader.
Among the key issues likely to feature in future discussions are parliamentary cooperation and the appointment of a new Chief Election Commissioner (CEC) along with two members of the Election Commission of Pakistan (ECP).
