Shah Mahmood Qureshi Says Negotiation Mandate Rests with Opposition Leader Mahmood Khan Achakzai

Independent Report
Lahore: PTI Vice Chairman Shah Mahmood Qureshi has stated that the authority to conduct political negotiations has been entrusted to Opposition Leader Mahmood Khan Achakzai, adding that any dialogue process will follow party policy and constitutional principles. He made the remarks while speaking to journalists after appearing before an anti-terrorism court.
Qureshi emphasized that Pakistan has consistently supported Afghanistan and expects Afghan soil not to be used against Pakistan’s security. He said regional peace depends on mutual cooperation and strong bilateral relations, stressing that Afghanistan’s stability is closely linked with Pakistan’s security environment.
Commenting on border security, he said the situation along the Iran-Pakistan border is currently under control. Referring to regional tensions, Qureshi noted that Pakistan has successfully defended itself in the past but warned that threats from India have not fully subsided.
On political reconciliation, he said dialogue remains essential for progress, adding that resistance ultimately leads to compromise. He maintained that Mahmood Khan Achakzai is best placed to determine the future course of negotiations in the prevailing political circumstances.