The much-awaited dialogue under the National Consensus Commission began on Tuesday, marking what could be the beginning of a new chapter in political reform.

The commission’s Co-Chair Professor Dr Ali Riaz in his opening speech, thanked political parties for their active participation and feedback on the commission's earlier recommendations. 

He said discussions were held with each party based on the responses they provided.

Professor Riaz said that instead of separate talks with each party, the commission decided to hold joint discussions on issues where most parties are already close to agreement or only need brief further discussion. 

"By listening to each other's arguments, positions may shift. That is why we have taken this approach," he added.

Explaining the structure of the dialogue, he said the current phase will focus on three to four key issues at a time, allowing enough time for meaningful discussion. 

“We may not agree on everything, but we must reach a certain level of understanding,” he said, adding that due to time constraints, decisions must be made on what to include or exclude in the upcoming July Charter.

He further said that some of the commission’s earlier recommendations have already changed through discussions, and those changes will be reviewed before final decisions are made. 

“We need to remember that we won’t reach full agreement on all matters. But if we can find common ground on key issues, those can be included in the constitution,” he added.

MSK/