Pakistan Peoples Party Chairman Bilawal Bhutto Zardari and senior federal ministers have agreed to strengthen security, enforce the electoral code of conduct and maintain political coordination during the second and third phases of the general elections in Azad Jammu and Kashmir, sources said.

The understanding was reached during an important meeting attended by federal ministers Rana Sanaullah and Amir Muqam. The participants held detailed discussions on the overall political situation in Azad Kashmir, the prevailing electoral environment and the law and order situation, according to sources familiar with the meeting.

The PPP leadership presented its concerns regarding the election process and security arrangements to the federal ministers. The ministers assured the party that the issues would be addressed through mutual consultation and continued engagement.

Sources said the participants agreed that security arrangements would be further tightened for the second phase of the elections, with additional personnel and preventive measures deployed in sensitive areas.

The meeting also decided that political leaders and workers would not be permitted to display weapons during the election campaign. The proposed ban is aimed at reducing tensions and preventing intimidation or violence during political activities.

The PPP and Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz agreed to adopt a joint strategy to ensure foolproof security during the second and third phases of polling. The two parties also decided that stricter arrangements would be introduced in view of the administrative and security shortcomings reportedly observed during the first phase.

According to sources, the meeting placed particular emphasis on the effective implementation of the election code of conduct. The participants agreed that political parties, candidates and their supporters should comply with the rules to help maintain a peaceful and orderly electoral environment.

Officials and party leaders also discussed the need for stronger coordination among the civil administration, election authorities and law enforcement agencies, particularly in constituencies considered vulnerable to clashes or disruption.

The meeting declared the holding of transparent, peaceful and fair elections in Azad Kashmir a common priority of the PPP and PML-N.

Both parties expressed their commitment to reducing political tensions, maintaining regular contact and increasing cooperation throughout the remaining stages of the election process.

Sources said the PPP and PML-N also agreed to continue political talks beyond the immediate election-related issues. The possible establishment of a joint political committee to improve relations and resolve differences between the two parties was discussed, with progress expected in the near future.

The proposed committee would provide a formal mechanism for consultation, coordination and dispute resolution between the coalition partners, according to sources.

The participants maintained that political dialogue and mutual consultation were necessary to prevent confrontations and strengthen confidence in the electoral process.

The meeting concluded with an understanding that all available measures would be taken to improve security, ensure compliance with election rules and provide voters with a peaceful environment during the remaining phases of the Azad Kashmir polls.