Opposition Criticizes Exclusion from Foreign Delegations; PTI Plans Own Diplomatic Missions

Islamabad – Leader of the Opposition in the National Assembly, Shibli Faraz, voiced strong objections on Monday over the exclusion of opposition members from official foreign delegations, describing the government’s approach as unilateral on a matter of national importance.

Speaking during a session of the Senate chaired by Deputy Chairman Syedal Nasar, the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) leader expressed disappointment that the government-formed committee on a key national issue did not include a single opposition member. Faraz emphasized that the matter affected the entire country, and it was regrettable that the opposition had been sidelined.

Faraz acknowledged the government’s initiative to form delegations for diplomatic engagement, calling it commendable in principle but criticized its lack of political inclusivity. “Not a single member from the largest opposition party has been included in the committee. This is narrow-mindedness on the part of the government,” Faraz said.

He announced that in response, PTI would send its own delegations abroad to represent Pakistan’s stance at the international level, even if it meant bearing the expenses independently. Faraz also warned the government against placing PTI members on the Exit Control List (ECL) while traveling abroad to defend national interests.

Drawing a comparison with India, Faraz pointed out that even opposition members of the Congress Party were included in parliamentary committees, which he said reflected political maturity and unity in addressing national concerns. He urged the government to adopt a more inclusive approach, particularly in the wake of recent tensions with India, noting that the Indian attack had united the nation.

In response, Federal Law Minister Azam Nazeer Tarar explained that foreign delegations formed by the government traditionally consisted of government representatives only. He acknowledged the opposition’s right to dissent, adding that the issue of parliamentary delegations was under consideration by the National Assembly Speaker and the Senate Chairman.

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Deputy Chairman Senate Syedal Nasar also expressed his support for addressing the matter, offering his office’s assistance in ensuring broader consultation on future foreign delegations.