Pakistani PM seeks help in Taliban talks

Pakistani Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif on Wednesday sought political and religious leaders help to revive peace talks with Taliban militants. Pakistani Taliban refused to talk with the government after the killing of their chief, Hakimullah Mehsud, in a U.S. drone attack in November 2013. Pakistani Interior Minister had publicly accused the U.S. of sabotaging the peace process with Mehsud's killing. Sharif is now seeking help from religious and political leaders who have influence on the Taliban, and urging them to play a role in encouraging the Taliban to come to the negotiating table. Sharif earlier visisted a de-radicalization cennter in northwestern Swat valley where the former Taliban members receive education and technical training. Addressing a gathering at the center, the Prime Minister said that his government wants atmosphere of peace, harmony and goodwill to prevail all over the country. "The Government of Pakistan is striving to make Pakistan free from the extremism and all the people are given equal opportunities to progress and development." He said that the role of Pakistani army is commendable in restoration of peace and rebuilding of basic infrastructure. "I also admire their (Army's) efforts to bring back the youth from clutches of extremism, and help them to live a normal life." The de-radicalization plan, which has been admired nationally as well as internationally, has rehabilitated more than 2,000 youth into normal life. Sharif said the de-radicalization programme should be extended to other parts of the country, where the youth has adopted such path and needs attention. "They (militants) should be made healthy members of the society through constructive engagement. They are not enemies of Pakistan but have lost their direction," he added.