ISLAMABAD - After a period of intense negotiations following an inconclusive national election, two major political parties in Pakistan have announced a formal agreement to form a coalition government. The Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP), led by Bhutto Zardari, and the Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N), led by three-time Premier Nawaz Sharif, have reached a consensus after ten days of discussions.

During a press conference in Islamabad, Bhutto Zardari confirmed that Shehbaz Sharif, the younger brother of Nawaz Sharif, will be the coalition's candidate for prime minister, while his father, Asif Ali Zardari, will be their nominee for the presidency. Shehbaz Sharif expressed confidence in their ability to secure the necessary support, noting that their coalition, along with smaller parties, holds a comfortable majority in the legislature.

The prolonged delay in forming a government has raised concerns, particularly amidst Pakistan's economic crisis, characterized by slow growth and record inflation, as well as escalating militant violence. Both parties have emphasized the need for a stable administration capable of addressing these pressing issues, and they have pledged to expedite the process of forming the government.

Under the country's constitution, a parliamentary session must be convened by February 29, followed by a vote for the new prime minister. As the deadline approaches, the focus will be on the successful formation of the coalition government and its ability to tackle the challenges facing Pakistan.