By Acting President and Senate Chairman Yousuf Raza Gilani expressed the readiness of the Pakistan People’s Party (PPP) to engage in discussions about political matters. He emphasized that it’s up to the Pakistan Tehreek-i-Insaf (PTI) to decide whom they want to engage with in talks.
Gilani stressed the importance of bringing all parties together to resolve national issues. Speaking to the media after inaugurating a water filtration plant in Lahore, Gilani highlighted the current instability in the country and the necessity for all stakeholders to collaborate on a plan to overcome it.
He emphasized the importance of unity among politicians, stating that everyone should be on the same page.
Gilani clarified that the PPP has never distanced itself from the government. On the contrary, they are fully supportive and engaged in discussions to potentially join the government.
He assured that if the PPP were to join, they would take responsibility and support the government in its endeavors.
The governor has hinted at sending the bill back to the assembly for further consultation and review. The comments reflected a wider disapproval of PPP leadership about the bill.
Earlier, while addressing party workers at his residence, Mr Gilani said the PPP wanted political stability, which was “a must for economic progress,” according to APP.
The gathering was attended by his sons and PPP lawmakers Ali Qasim Gilani, Ali Qadir Gilani and Ali Musa Gilani and Syed Haider Gilani, and other party leaders.
Gilani asserted that no bill or law would be passed in parliament without the PPP’s involvement. He also mentioned a recent meeting between a PPP delegation and Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, during which the PPP called for a budget that prioritizes farmers and youth in the coming year.
Highlighting the importance of dialogue and unity in decision-making for the benefit of the people, Gilani pointed out that political instability leads to economic instability.
He reiterated the PPP’s commitment to public welfare and political dialogue, stating that they always prefer a conciliatory approach to address national issues.
Gilani mentioned ongoing negotiations with the PML-N regarding joining the government, indicating that a decision would be made after assessing the available options. He also stated that the PPP would provide suggestions to ensure that the upcoming budget favors the masses, especially farmers, youth, and laborers.
As a member of the United Nations, Gilani emphasized Pakistan’s commitment to the Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 6, which aims to ensure access to clean water and sanitation for all by 2030.
He praised efforts to provide clean drinking water to the public and stressed the global importance of addressing this issue. Regarding national security, Gilani expressed confidence in Pakistan’s ability to address threats on its borders and counter terrorism and extremism with national unity.
He also emphasized the link between economic prosperity and political stability, stressing the importance of implementing PPP Chairman Bilawal Bhutto Zardari’s 10-point economic agenda.
During a gathering in Multan, Gilani thanked the people for electing his son, Ali Kasim Gilani, as a Member of the National Assembly (MNA). He highlighted the benefits of the Benazir Income Support Programme (BISP) in South Punjab and advocated for its expansion.
Gilani also discussed ongoing discussions with Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif regarding developmental projects in Multan and the provision of facilities for education, health, and transportation in South Punjab.
Gilani emphasized the importance of political stability, unity, and dialogue in addressing national issues and ensuring the welfare of the people. He reiterated the PPP’s commitment to supporting the government and engaging in constructive discussions for the betterment of the country.
