Pakistan hints at talks with Taliban

KABUL‘s new government has hinted at negotiations with the insurgents, but within the constitutional framework.

“Political will is needed to curb terrorism and militancy in the country. the government would hold talks with Taliban within the limits of constitution,” a minister was quoted as saying.

Federal Minister for Information and Broadcasting Pervaiz Rashid told a private TV channel, monitored here, the government remained committed to dealing with challenge facing the country.

He lashed out at past governments for failing to take concrete steps to root out terrorism from the country. He said Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif had directed intelligence and law-enforcement agencies to frame an anti-terror strategy.

Federating units, including Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and Sindh, would be given all possible assistance to tackle the menace, the minister promised.

Chief of Army Staff (COAS) Gen Ashfaq Pervez Kayani is to brief politicians on national security at an all parties conference. Drone attacks, the Balochistan situation, war on terror and national security policy are on the agenda.

PAN Monitor/mud

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