President Asif Ali Zardari expressed on Thursday that the recent meeting between Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP) Chief Minister Ali Amin Gandapur marked a positive start.
The transition of power to Shehbaz’s government occurred earlier this month following an alliance between his party, the Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N), and Zardari’s Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP), along with other smaller parties.
However, the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI), now in opposition, alleges that the PML-N and PPP secured victory in the February 8 elections by usurping PTI’s mandate.
Historically, relations between these parties have been tense. Gandapur, upon assuming the role of chief minister, stated his refusal to acknowledge the PML-N’s government but expressed willingness to maintain a working relationship with the Centre.
In a significant move toward reconciliation, Gandapur met Prime Minister Shehbaz in Islamabad on Wednesday, describing the engagement as constructive.
In response, President Zardari lauded the interaction between the two leaders, emphasizing the urgent need to mend Pakistan’s internal divides. He stressed the importance of prioritizing national unity above partisan interests and reinstating faith in the democratic process.
Zardari asserted that fostering such dialogue was crucial for instilling hope in the populace and demonstrating the efficacy of democratic governance.
Regarding Gandapur’s post-meeting statements, where he advocated for political dialogue with the imprisoned PTI founder, Imran Khan, the premier underscored the significance of unity among all provinces for the nation’s progress and development.
In summary, the meeting between Prime Minister Shehbaz and CM Gandapur represents a positive step toward fostering political dialogue and bridging divides within Pakistan. President Zardari encourages such initiatives, advocating for national unity and faith in democratic processes.
