Islamabad: The government has extended an offer for negotiations to Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI). Federal Minister for Petroleum Musadik Malik said, Let’s sit together, talk, and resolve the issues.”
During a press conference in Islamabad, Musadik Malik highlighted that Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif’s focus is on three main priorities: providing jobs to poor children, reducing the burden of inflation, and eliminating poverty.
Prime Minister’s Priorities
Musadik Malik emphasized that Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif is deeply concerned about three critical issues. First, he aims to ensure employment for the children of impoverished families. Second, he is focused on reducing the overwhelming burden of inflation that affects citizens’ daily lives. Third, the Prime Minister is committed to eradicating poverty in the country.
Public Awareness and Critique of PTI
The minister stated that the public is well aware of the actions taken by different political leaders. “Has anyone ever heard how they plan to end inflation?” Malik questioned, pointing out the lack of concrete plans from PTI. He criticized PTI’s leader, Imran Khan, for his stance on the military’s neutrality, suggesting that his followers merely echoed his words. “The captain said the army should be neutral, and his followers echoed the same. The captain also said they would pursue them to the grave, which culminated in the events of May 9,” Malik remarked.
Politics of Chaos
Musadik Malik condemned the politics of chaos and instability. He stated, “Those who engage in politics of chaos are not well-wishers of the country.” Referring to a recent trend, he added, “Recently, there was a trend saying ‘No captain, no Pakistan.’ The captain alleged that America was conspiring and waved the cipher. People echoed that America was indeed against our country, violated our constitution, and harmed our nation, and the army should protect us.”
Obstacles to Development
The minister highlighted the actions of anti-national elements hindering the country’s progress. He stressed that if Pakistan exists, we all exist. He accused the founder of PTI of instigating conflicts with the establishment. The founder of PTI says that the PML-N is instigating our fight with the establishment. They have clearly stated that they will destroy the country, and they are doing so. On May 9, memorials of martyrs were desecrated,” he said.
Call to End Terrorism
Musadik Malik reiterated the government’s stance against terrorism. He mentioned, “We say to end terrorism, but you say you will not let operations happen.” He condemned PTI’s actions and called for unity and constructive dialogue.
Government’s Efforts to Combat Inflation
Malik also addressed the issue of inflation. The overall inflation rate was 38% last year. They held a sit-in, and we reduced the inflation rate from 48% to 2%,” he claimed. He criticized PTI for attacking the parliament while highlighting the government’s efforts to support low-income people through programs like the Benazir Income Support Program.
Commitment to Public Welfare
The federal minister outlined the government’s commitment to public welfare. We will fix hospitals and the FBR. He stated that we have diverted money from the PSDP to relieve 86% of people experiencing poverty and protect 86% of low-income families’ electricity bills.
Call for Constructive Dialogue
Musadik Malik concluded with a call for constructive dialogue. When we say let’s talk, you say you will shut down the country. Talk, but don’t destroy. Resolve issues, don’t complicate them. If you want to remove us, go ahead. When the People’s Party said they would support you in forming the government, why didn’t you create it? Because resolving issues was not your goal. Let’s talk, he urged.
