Information Minister, Sheikh Rashid on Sunday said government was in constant touch with the opposition. "Contacts with political parties are natural in a democratic set-up and there should be contacts between the government and the opposition, he said while addressing a press conference here. Rashid said ground is being prepared for broader understanding between the government and the opposition that might take some time. He said it was keen desire of the government to work out some strategy to sit and work together.

"It would be unwise not to grasp post-9/11 political scenario and I am confident that government-opposition meetings would yield positive results," the minister added.

Responding to a question about the issues government discussing with the opposition, Sheikh Rashid said every issue is being discussed but added that elections would not be held in 2005.

Referring to tussle between Sindh chief minister and Imtiaz Shaikh, Rashid said the matter would be resolved soon.

"Whosoever found indulged in corrupt practice would be punished accordingly," he maintained.

Answering another question, the minister said that NWFP chief minister and the opposition leader should attend the next meeting of National Security Council (NSC) where vital issues would be discussed.

He said government is fully aware of the compulsions and pressure on Durrani from his party but ultimately he will have to find out some way out because he is chief minister of a province.

Copyright Associated Press of Pakistan, 2005