Khawaja Asif doubts PTI’s sincerity in talks

ISLAMABAD: Expressing his wonder over the fresh change in the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf’s (PTI) behaviour, Defence Minister Khawaja Asif on Monday raised doubts over the sincerity of Imran Khan-founded party in negotiations with the coalition government.

Terming it a “complete U-turn”, the defence minister asked: “I am repeatedly asking what happened to the person who did not want to shake hands with us [and is now desperately seeking dialogue with the government].”

Speaking on Geo News programme “Aaj Shahzeb Khanzada Kay Sath”, the minister added: “I do not see sincerity in PTI [leadership].” His remarks came shortly after National Assembly Speaker Sardar Ayaz Sadiq formally convened an in-camera meeting of committees representing the government and the embattled PTI on January 2, 2025 to defuse the prevailing political tensions in the country.

The crucial meeting between the ruling alliance and Imran Khan-founded party will be held at 11am in the parliament house. The minister reiterated that he was not against negotiation but the ruling coalition should remain cautious. Taking a jab at the former ruling party, he said: “Look at their desperation, the PTI wants to hold talks with the establishment through us.” Responding to a question, the minister said that the government would not compromise on nuclear and missile programmes.