Islamabad: Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar strongly rejected the possibility of talking to those involved in the May 9 violence and reiterated the government’s stand against talks with the opposition.
Speaking to mediapersons at the Parliament House, Dar said he believed in the principles of dialogue and reconciliation in politics, but drew a clear line when taking action against the state. “There should always be reconciliation and dialogue in politics, but there will be no dialogue with those who oppose the country, even though we have blood relations with them,” he said.
Dar recalled how PTI’s 126-day sit-in in front of the DPRD was resolved through dialogue, showing confidence in peaceful talks. However, he said the May 9 incident, including attacks on key government institutions like GHQ and Jinnah House, was an unforgivable act of rebellion.
There was no compromise in the elements involved in the May 9 disaster. Anyone who opposes the country will not be discussed, regardless of their personal relationship,” he said. He stressed that his position in the commander’s meeting reflects the views of every Pakistani.
When asked about Justice Athar Minallah’s response to the Prime Minister’s statement against the court, Dar chose not to comment directly, indicating that the question was directed at the Prime Minister himself. He stressed respect for the judicial system and emphasized cooperation among all stakeholders to prevent further problems for Pakistan.
Dar also rejected claims of global isolation and emphasized the country’s progress in the international arena, citing positive economic trends. “Pakistan has come out of global isolation and economic stability is taking a positive turn. Inflation is down and the economy is improving,” he said, leading to more positive developments from the Prime Minister’s visit to China.
In response to a question on the budget, Dar noted the unusual timing of approving the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa budget before the federal budget. He said the provincial government should review the budget notification after the federal budget.
