Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has said that the government is ready for talks with the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf on legitimate issues, however, blackmailing under the guise of talks is not acceptable under any circumstances.

Prime minister’s remarks came during a federal cabinet meeting on Tuesday, where key political and economic issues of the country came under discussion.

Addressing the meeting, Prime Minister Sharif emphasised that the PTI had been invited for dialogue in the past and was still welcome for negotiations to foster political harmony for national prosperity.

The prime minister reiterated that he had also extended invitations for dialogue on the floor of the National Assembly and remains committed to engaging with all political parties for the country’s welfare.

The prime minister also discussed the privatisation of Pakistan International Airlines (PIA), calling it the largest privatisation in the country’s history.

He praised cabinet members for their efforts to make the process transparent to ensure a successful bidding process.

On the occasion, Prime Minister Sharif also lauded Field Marshal Asim Munir for receiving the King Abdulaziz Award in Saudi Arabia, describing it as an honour not just for the Field Marshal but for the entire nation.