Context
The militant group Tehreek-e-Taliban (TTP) has hinted it will accept mediation by Saudi Arabia if its government offers them peace talks. Maulvi Waliur Rehman Mehsud, of the TTP said, “We will see our shura (council) will decide whether and when can we enter into talks with the government, with the military…but I think we will like to involve countries we trust…they are in the Arab world. Let’s say Saudi Arabia.” The second in command to Hakimullah Mehsud said he did not have any direct peace offer yet but insisted any deal brokered must guarantee enforcement.
Pakistan’s military and political leadership at the All Parties Conference (APC) last month decided it would try to initiate negotiations with militant groups active in the country including TTP. The APC has suggested a “national institutionalized mechanism’ based on pattern of the High Peace Council (HPC) set up by Afghan President Hamid Karzai be developed for the purpose.
