Government criticizes opposition boycott of in-camera national security briefing

The government on Wednesday expressed disappointment over the opposition's decision to boycott an in-camera briefing on national security matters. The session, convened by Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif at his office, was intended to bring together the heads of all parliamentary parties for discussions on issues of national interest.

The opposition party Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) declined to attend the meeting. PTI's decision was based on its demand for a meeting with its founder, Imran Khan, prior to participating in any such briefings.

Addressing the National Assembly, Minister for Parliamentary Affairs Dr Tariq Fazal Chaudhry urged the opposition to reconsider its stance. He emphasized the importance of unity on matters related to national security, stating that political differences should be set aside in the interest of the country. The minister clarified that the session was not organized to advance the agenda of any political party or to benefit any individual.

"It was a matter of national interest," Dr Tariq Fazal Chaudhry said.

Government officials reiterated their call for the opposition to demonstrate seriousness and responsibility on issues of national importance. They advised the opposition to rethink its policy regarding participation in such briefings, particularly when national security is at stake.

The government maintained that the in-camera session was designed to foster a unified message from Pakistan's political leadership on critical security matters. The absence of the opposition, officials said, was regrettable and could undermine efforts to present a united front on issues affecting the country's security.

As of Wednesday, the opposition had not indicated any change in its position regarding future participation in similar meetings. The government, meanwhile, continues to call for cooperation and consensus on national security issues.