Negotiations aimed at ending a nationwide goods transport strike are scheduled for Monday, with the federal government and Sindh provincial authorities set to meet truckers' representatives separately. The talks come as the strike, now in its second day, continues to disrupt freight movement across Pakistan. Main Developments All Pakistan Goods Transport Alliance President Malik Shahzad Awan confirmed that talks with the federal government would begin at 11am, followed by a meeting with the Sindh government at 2pm at the Commissioner's Office. Federal Minister for Communications Abdul Aleem Khan, alongside representatives from the ministries of Ports and Shipping, Finance, and Petroleum, will attend the federal talks. Awan stressed that the strike would not be lifted based on assurances alone. "We will not end the strike on assurances alone. Our demands must be approved," he stated, signaling a firm stance ahead of the negotiations. Read also: Makkah Defence Pact Defensive, Not Aimed at Any Nation: Dar Background The strike began on Sunday as transporters protested against frequent changes in diesel prices, which they say have made business operations untenable. They also cited higher toll taxes and other financial burdens as major challenges. The transporters are demanding a reversal of the recent toll tax increase, with rates to be restored to the level of 30 June 2024. Additionally, they want the practice of setting diesel prices on a daily basis to be withdrawn. Another key demand is a reduction in withholding tax from 7 percent to 2 percent. These grievances have been building for some time, culminating in the current strike. Why It Matters The strike has raised concerns among industrialists, who fear disruptions to supply chains and economic activity. The transporters' demands reflect broader inflationary pressures affecting the logistics sector, and the outcome of these talks could set a precedent for future negotiations between the government and key industries. What's Next The talks on Monday will be crucial in determining whether the strike continues or is called off. While the government has agreed to negotiate, the transporters' insistence on concrete approvals, rather than assurances, suggests that a resolution will require substantive policy changes. The meetings with the federal and Sindh governments will likely be followed by further announcements.