LONDON: Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif has said that the process of peace dialogue with the Taliban has begun, a much-debated initiative and demand by almost all political parties of the countries.
Talking to media representatives after meeting with British Deputy Prime Minister Nick Clegg in London on Thursday‚ the prime minister said that dialogues will be held within the constitutional framework of Pakistan.
Sharif said that the government cannot wait and see the innocent people and members of law-enforcement agencies being killed.
The prime minister said that the government is enhancing capacity of counterterrorism forces and intelligence agencies to root out extremism and terrorism from Pakistan. He said that Protection of Pakistan Ordinance has been specifically prepared to deal with the terrorists engaged in war against the people and anti-state activities.
On Pakistan-India relations‚ the prime minister said that sincere efforts are being made to resolve all outstanding issues with India.
Sharif said that India bashing has been made a non-issue in Pakistan but unfortunately Indian politicians are still engaged in unwarranted Pakistan bashing.