Prime Minister’s Adviser on Political Affairs, Rana Sanaullah, stated on Tuesday that the government would not succumb to any pressure from the incoming Donald Trump administration regarding negotiations with the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) or the release of its founder, Imran Khan.
No Compromise on Sovereignty
When asked about potential influence from the Trump administration following a tweet by Trump ally Richard Grenell, demanding Imran Khan’s release, Sanaullah was resolute:
“We would not work under the pressure of Donald Trump […] Any intervention would be considered interference in Pakistan’s sovereignty.”
He emphasized that Pakistan values its sovereignty and national interests above external pressures, regardless of the nature of its bilateral relationship with the United States.
Dialogue on Pakistan’s Terms
Sanaullah clarified that ongoing negotiations with the PTI were not prompted by external influence but were initiated domestically. He stated that any dialogue between the government and the opposition should remain free of external involvement, underscoring the need for bilateral, conclusive, and time-bound talks between the treasury and opposition benches.
While affirming the government’s willingness to engage in constructive dialogue, he warned that progress would only occur if both sides worked cooperatively without imposing unrealistic demands.
Developments in PTI Leadership
Sanaullah also referenced recent remarks by embattled PTI Chairman Gohar Ali Khan, who requested a timeframe for meeting PTI’s demands after visiting Imran Khan at Adiala Jail. However, the government remains cautious, ensuring no undue haste in summoning further meetings until concrete progress can be achieved.
US-Pakistan Relations
Acknowledging the historical ups and downs in Pakistan-US relations, Sanaullah reiterated that Islamabad would not allow its national interests to be compromised, even in the face of pressure from influential foreign administrations.
This statement reflects the government’s firm stance on maintaining independence in its internal political affairs and resisting external influence in matters of national importance.
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