BANGI, May 20 — Former PAS deputy president Nasharudin Mat Isa today said leaders from the Islamist party and Umno should be open-minded to enable proposed talks between the two rivals to be held in the interests of the people and the country.

He said if leaders of the two parties could come together for discussion, many issues could be resolved.

“The conditions set by PAS may not be accepted by Umno, but I really hope that leaders of the two parties will have an open mind in making serious efforts for the benefit of the people and the country in all aspects,” Nasharudin (picture) told reporters when met at his daughter’s wedding ceremony in Bandar Bukit Mahkota here today.

Prior to this, PAS spiritual leader Datuk Nik Abdul Aziz Nik Mat was reported as saying that PAS was willing to hold talks with any party, including Umno or non-governmental organisations, to unite the Muslims in the country.

The statement received positive reaction, including from Deputy Prime Minister Tan Sri Muhyiddin Yassin.

However, Nik Aziz, who is also Kelantan mentri besar, stressed that Umno would have to meet several conditions that would be determined by PAS, including holding the talks before the upcoming 13th general election. — Bernama