Defense Minister Khawaja Asif stated on Tuesday that Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) has successfully achieved its goal of making contact with the country’s establishment. Speaking to the media outside the Parliament House, Asif commented on the ongoing negotiations between PTI and the government, questioning the necessity of negotiations if PTI had already reached the establishment.
Asif emphasized that PTI’s primary objective was to engage with the establishment, which they have now accomplished. He acknowledged that while negotiations are a standard part of politics, PTI’s focus had been directed elsewhere.
Regarding external pressures, Asif reaffirmed Pakistan’s commitment to its sovereignty. He stated that if any foreign entity demanded the release of PTI’s leader, Pakistan would make decisions based on its national interests. He also emphasized that Pakistan does not interfere in other countries’ internal matters and will not accept interference in its own.
Addressing questions about the Sharif brothers, Asif clarified that their meetings are routine due to their family ties. He also mentioned that PTI’s leadership negotiations took place while legal cases against them were ongoing, and PTI had acknowledged that the outcomes of these cases would not influence their negotiations.
The defense minister concluded by stressing the importance of safeguarding Pakistan’s internal and external interests while rejecting any foreign pressure.
