The Pakistani Taliban has insisted US drone strikes in the country must stop before they will consider peace talks with the government.
Political parties had last month backed the Sharif government's proposal to seek negotiations with the militants.
According to the Daily Times, Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) responded with a list of preconditions, including a government ceasefire and the withdrawal of troops from the tribal areas.
TTP spokesman Shahidullah Shahid said that any ceasefire must include an end to US drone attacks in the tribal areas.
He said that a ceasefire alone is not sufficient. The stopping of drone strikes is a must, otherwise, if they continue the group will not accept the ceasefire.
You’ve reached your limit of {{free_limit}} free articles this month.
Subscribe now for unlimited access.
Already subscribed? Log in
Subscribe to read the full story →
Smart Quarterly
₹900
3 Months
₹300/Month
Smart Essential
₹2,700
1 Year
₹225/Month
Super Saver
₹3,900
2 Years
₹162/Month
Renews automatically, cancel anytime
Here’s what’s included in our digital subscription plans
Exclusive premium stories online
Over 30 premium stories daily, handpicked by our editors
Complimentary Access to The New York Times
News, Games, Cooking, Audio, Wirecutter & The Athletic
Business Standard Epaper
Digital replica of our daily newspaper — with options to read, save, and share
Curated Newsletters
Insights on markets, finance, politics, tech, and more delivered to your inbox
Market Analysis & Investment Insights
In-depth market analysis & insights with access to The Smart Investor
Archives
Repository of articles and publications dating back to 1997
Ad-free Reading
Uninterrupted reading experience with no advertisements
Seamless Access Across All Devices
Access Business Standard across devices — mobile, tablet, or PC, via web or app