Pakistan government to directly talk to Imran, Qadri

Islamabad: The Pakistan government Wednesday decided to hold direct talks with Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) chief Imran Khan and Pakistan Awami Tehreek (PAT) leader Tahir-ul Qadri who are currently protesting to compel the prime minister to resign, Geo News reported.

Punjab Chief Minister Shahbaz Sharif, who is also Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif's brother, could resign until the investigations into the Lahore tragedy is completed, sources said.

At least 11 people were killed and dozens injured in a clash between police and Qadri's supporters in Lahore's Model Town area, after a police party tried to remove barriers around Qadri's house and the Minhajul Quran Secretariat.

Two senior government officials will hold dialogue with the chiefs of PAT and PTI, and would present the option of Shahbaz Sharif's resignation.

The decision was taken by the prime minister after consulting political leaders, sources added.

Leader of Opposition in the National Assembly Khursheed Shah said the prime minister has taken the responsibility of contacting Khan and Qadri.