Lahore: Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Senator Mohammad Ishaq Dar said on Saturday that the Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP) would remain a key ally of the Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) despite the latter securing a simple majority in the National Assembly as a result of the reserved seats ruling. Ishaq Dar said that PPP is the partner of the difficult time, adding that we will not quit their companionship in good time, adding that PPP is our ally and will continue to remain ally. He said that so far PPP has not talked about joining ministries, adding that we are ready to work with all political parties.

"PPP is and will remain our coalition partner," said the deputy prime minister, recalling that without the PPP's support, it would not have been possible to form a government following the 2024 general elections.

Talking to journalists at Data Darbar shrine in Lahore, Ishaq Dar said that the Bilawal Bhutto Zardari-led party stood by the government during difficult times and the Nawaz Sharif-led party would not abandon it in the times of stability.

To a question, he replied that the coalition partner has not demanded any ministerial portfolios from the PML-N.

Ishaq Dar while denying the meeting of PML-N President Mian Muhammad Nawaz Sharif with Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf Founder Imran Khan said the meeting of Nawaz Sharif and Imran Khan is just a rumor, adding that there is no truth in rumors of former prime minister visiting Adiyala Jail Rawalpinidi. "These are all speculations. It must be someone's wish list, as we don't need to meet anyone. The law will take its own course. Such sponsored news is spread deliberately,' he added.