High-level contacts have taken place between a senior government official and the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) in an attempt to avert a planned protest on November 24th.

According to a report by The News, the initial contact was ‘positive’.

The identity of the government official involved is being withheld to protect the ongoing negotiations. Disclosure of names at this stage could jeopardize the delicate efforts at reconciliation between the establishment and the PTI.

If the talks remain constructive, the government official will brief the establishment. The PTI may receive certain assurances. However, any formal negotiations would occur directly between the government and the PTI. Government negotiators would require the establishment’s approval before agreeing to any deal.

Sources suggest that if negotiations progress positively, the PTI might withdraw its call for the November 24 protest march in exchange for assurances regarding its demands.

While the military establishment may not directly participate in subsequent talks between the government and PTI, government negotiators would still require their approval before reaching any agreement.

The aim of these initial talks is to persuade the PTI to call off its planned march to Islamabad on November 24. The party has vowed to continue its protest until its demands are met.