The PTI long march has increased political tensions as Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif offered
fresh talks if the protest is called off.Speaking at a ceremony in Islamabad, the prime minister
urged PTI leaders to end the march and sit-ins before negotiations resume.Shehbaz Sharif said
the government was ready to discuss political issues through dialogue if PTI stopped its current
protest.

He said government and opposition representatives had already held discussions but the
process failed to produce a final agreement.The prime minister said the ruling coalition had
agreed to pursue meaningful negotiations with PTI and resolve differences through political
discussion.The long march began in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and is being led by provincial Chief
Minister Sohail Afridi toward Islamabad.

The march followed the breakdown of negotiations between PTI and the federal government
over several political and security-related concerns.

PTI has demanded greater access to jailed former Prime Minister Imran Khan and continues to
seek his release from prison.

The political disagreement also includes differences over counterterrorism policy in Khyber
Pakhtunkhwa which has faced serious security challenges.

Shehbaz Sharif warned that prolonged protests and road blockages could create difficulties for
Pakistan’s economy and disrupt normal business activity.He pointed to improvements in
exports, remittances and economic stability and said these gains should not be damaged by
political confrontation.The prime minister also said protecting citizens and their property was the
government’s responsibility during the continuing political situation.

Meanwhile, security measures have increased around Islamabad as authorities prepare for the
possible arrival of the protesting convoy.The government has therefore linked fresh negotiations
with ending the march while PTI continues its planned journey toward the federal capital.
The latest offer keeps the possibility of political dialogue open but both sides remain divided
over the conditions required to restart negotiations.

Sources: Prime Minister’s Office and Radio Pakistan

Fatima Khan