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Pakistan has decided to hold peace talks with militant groups. At the All Parties Conference on Thursday, the politicians, government and the military officials discussed matters in light of the recent US threats. A 13-point declaration was issued after a nine-hour meeting. It was decided that the country would hold peace talks with militants including the banned group Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP).
The carefully drafted declaration affirmed, “Pakistan must initiate dialogue with a view to negotiate peace with our own people in the tribal areas.” The members furthermore agreed to implement a new strategy, with a focus on reconciliation, and pledged to give “peace a chance”.
A parliamentary committee will be formed to oversee the implementation of the declaration. Surprisingly, the statement did not mention the US by name at any point
