Governor of Sindh Dr. Ishrat-ul-Ebad Khan on Saturday said that there would be no call for military assistance for restoring peace in Karachi and all the related issues would be resolved with the consensus of all stakeholders.

Dr Ishrat-ul-Ebad Khan urged all the political parties to work to avoid such a situation in which army action might become imminent.

Speaking to media persons after a meeting with Dr. Babar Awan, former Federal Minister for Law and PPP Senator, the Governor said the country was suffering due to political turbulence and steps should be taken to protect it and its institutions.

He said on the direction of President Asif Ali Zardai, both the parties were making dialogue on the political and administrative control of Karachi and added that they would bring peace but at the moment no timeframe could be given for that.

Dr Ishrat-ul-Ebad said that efforts were being made for better working relationship among all the political forces.

To a question, the Governor said that the Muttahida Qaumi Movement (MQM) had not yet decided to join the government as restoration of peace would be the top priority before making any headway.

Babar Awan said “We are holding dialogue to end trading of allegations against each other and efforts are on foot to bring peace in Karachi.”

Both the leaders agreed that a working relationship should be established between the PPP (Pakistan Peoples Party) and the MQM and that political and administrative steps be taken for harmony and stability in Karachi.

Babar Awan said that President Zardari and MQM Chief Altaf Hussain were working to strengthen democratic institutions.