Political, religious parties greet ceasefire announcement by Taliban

ISLAMABAD: Political and religious parties of the country have welcomed a ceasefire announced by Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) and are hopeful that the move will support the peace process between the Government and the banned outfit – ARY News reports.

According to details, both political and religious parties welcomed the announcement of a truce by Taliban, whilst also expressed reservations. Some have also expressed their hopes for the restoration of peace.

Leader of the Opposition, Syed Khursheed Shah referred to the ceasefire announcement as a positive advancement in negotiations process.

Molana Fazlur Rahman has also welcomed the announcement and expressed his certainty that the Government will immediately respond to Taliban's offer in a positive manner.

Fazl added that some elements do not want peace in the state and the Government needs to be careful about such factions. He also demanded the Government for halting its attacks and to review its policies for the use of force is not the solution to the issue.

Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf has also greeted the ceasefire by Taliban; Shireen Mazari said that the ceasefire is a practical step towards talks with Government.

Awami National Party's Mian Iftikhar Hussain says that if peace can be achieved through negotiations and all the confronting groups of Taliban are under TTP, then it is a good thing.

He urged the Government to immediately put forward its demands and said that negotiations should be held with the ones who admit the constitution.