ISLAMABAD – Prime Minister Syed Yousuf Raza Gilani Monday said the government wanted to maintain friendly relations with all its neighbours, including India, on the basis of equality.
Talking to media persons after visiting Ch Nisar Ali KhanÂ’s residence to offer condolences over the demise of his elder brother Lt Gen (r) Iftikhar, Prime Minister Gilani maintained that Pakistan would not compromise on its sovereignty, dignity and honour.
When asked whether National Reconciliation Ordinance (NRO) was a hurdle in the way of former President Pervez MusharrafÂ’s trial, the Prime Minister termed them two different issues.
Gilani did not agree to the impression that PML-N and PPP had developed differences and said both the parties had their own manifestos and programmes, while they were moving forward with political maturity to strengthen the national institutions as per the wishes of masses.
The prime minister said the PML-N was playing its role of Opposition at the Centre while PPP-led government had its own role to play, adding, “We are coalition partners in Punjab and are hopeful that PML-N will join us at the Centre too.”
Gilani said his government desired forward movement on the composite dialogue process with India for the resolution of all the outstanding issues.
Replying to a question, the prime minister said the government was in touch with the PML-N on all the important issues, including relations with India.
Referring to his meeting with Indian Prime Minister Manmohan Singh at Sharm el Sheikh, he said he met the PML-N Quaid Mian Nawaz Sharif to take him on board.
The prime minister said the government had fixed the ex-mill price of sugar at Rs 45 per kilogram, adding that the availability of commodity would be ensured in all provinces. He said the provincial governments following the federal governmentÂ’s step were also trying to control the sugar prices.
Gilani mentioned the unavailability of sugar in Balochistan and said the federal government had directed the Trading Corporation of Pakistan to ensure ample supply of sugar to the province. He said the government was utilising all available resources to normalise the price of sugar. He said the hoarders should also realise the problems of people especially during the holy month of Ramazan.
Earlier, the Prime Minister along with some federal ministers Rehman Malik, Raja Pervaiz Ashraf and Dr Babar Awan, offered condolences to Ch Nisar on the demise of his elder brother at his native village Chakri. Gilani expressed deep sorrow and grief over the death of Lt Gen (r) Iftikhar and prayed that Allah Almighty might rest the departed soul in peace and grant courage to the bereaved family to bear the loss with fortitude.