We will give up arms if Govt declares ceasefire: TTP

Lahore, Oct 16: The Pakistan unit of the Taliban, the Tehree-e-Taliban (TTP) has declared that it was sensitive to their country's integrity and was ready to give up arms if the Pakistan government announced ceasefire. They said that they were ready to hold talks with the federal government in this regard. "We are sensible people and understand the survival and integrity of our country. If the government relinquishes use of power, we are also ready to stop our actions and hold talks with the government," the Daily Times quoted TTP spokesman Maulvi Umar as saying.

He said that the TTP were also ready to cooperate with the government in its efforts to drive out foreigners from the tribal areas and stop militants' infiltration into Afghanistan.

Replying in the affirmative if they would guarantee that they would not cross into Afghanistan and take part in militancy, he said that they did not need to go to Afghanistan as Afghan Taliban were 'powerful'.

"However, if Afghan Taliban seek assistance from Pakistani Taliban, the decision will be made in consultation with the people," he added.

ANI