Islamist TLP leaders, Pakistan govt reach 'agreement'

"The government of Pakistan and the TLP had a detailed discussion under the environment of mutual trust, and an agreement has been reached between the two sides," he said while addressing a press conference.

"The agreement was reached after sense prevailed over aggression, rationality prevailed over sentiments, and all the participants demonstrated patience," he said.

"I want to urge the entire nation that this is not the victory of any individual, but it is the victory of Islam, patriotism, and protection of human lives," he said.

A day earlier, a new negotiating team — led by Qureshi and comprising Qaiser and Khan — met TLP leaders while Prime Minister Imran Khan met with senior clerics at his Banigala residence amid tensions over the rally hosted by the proscribed group.

Talking to Dawn, a senior TLP leader said negotiations were the only way forward and everybody wanted a way out of the current situation; however, the behaviour of some cabinet members was irresponsible.

“Why did they brand us Indian agents; the whole nation wants to know who is getting money from the enemies,” the TLP official, speaking from hiding, told Dawn, adding that, “we have asked the government to change the negotiating team which does not insult us after the meeting”.