In the backdrop of prevailing political unrest in the country, US Ambassador in Pakistan Anne W. Peterson called on Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz leader Mian Nawaz Sharif in a bid to help resolve differences between two major political parties (PPP and PML-N) at his Raiwind residence on Thursday. Sources told Business Recorder that US diplomat exchanged views with PML-N leader over the current situation arising out of political mess.
Matters pertaining to regional situation and ongoing war on terror also came under discussion. Former Punjab Chief Minister and PML-N President Mian Shahbaz Sharif and Opposition Leader in the National assembly Chaudhry Nisar Ali were also present during the meeting. Anne W. Peterson said on the occasion that the US wanted resolution of Pakistans political issues in accordance with its constitution and law. All the parties must show restrain and act in accordance with the law, sources said while quoting the US diplomat as having said.
Nawaz said on the occasion that the PML-N is waging a just struggle alongwith lawyers, civil society and political parties. He also told the US ambassador that he would not compromise on principles. "We dont want to seize parliament rather we want that President Asif Ali Zardari should fulfil promises made with the nation", he added.
Moreover, PML-N leader Nawaz Sharif has condemned arrests of political activists, lawyers and civil society people and termed it shameful and undemocratic act of the government. He said the arrests were being made in a bid to foil long march. He said the government itself was creating law and order situation without any reason. He asked the government to stop this action and immediately release all the arrested persons.
Further, Nawaz in an interview to a British newspaper said that he and Shahbaz Sharif were under threat from some elements of the government. Nawaz has accused the government of running an "elected dictatorship" that is plotting to kill him. He said President Asif Ali Zardari was ruling under a cloak of democracy but his policies would only benefit extremist elements.
"I have recently received certain information from own sources, credible sources, about certain forces who are active against me," Nawaz said. "Threats to my life come from high-ranking government officials, certain topmost people in the government, my sources say," he said.
"I cant abandon my mission because of the risks. Its a very noble cause. A mission to put the country back on the road to democracy," Nawaz said. Moreover, according to sources, the Ministry of Interior has warned Sharif brothers through a letter that their lives are under threat, hence, they should avoid addressing public rallies.