QUETTA: Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif on Saturday stressed the need to engage with individuals in Balochistan who have been led astray by extremist influences, calling it vital for national unity and progress.
Addressing a grand jirga in Quetta, the premier acknowledged the province’s grievances, stating, “Your concerns are fully respected, but terrorists, who know only violence, cannot be tolerated.” He emphasized the importance of dialogue, adding, “Let us sit together as brothers and resolve our issues.”
The prime minister urged the people of Balochistan to reject the agenda of those seeking to disrupt Pakistan’s development, describing such elements as enemies of the country’s progress.
Highlighting ongoing support, PM Shehbaz noted that Punjab had contributed Rs11 billion from its own share under the National Finance Commission (NFC) to support Balochistan. He added that Rs250 billion out of the federal government’s Rs1,000 billion development budget had been allocated to the province.
He announced that 25% of the next Public Sector Development Programme (PSDP) would be dedicated to Balochistan. He also pledged the distribution of laptops among students and support for farmers to transition to solar energy.
Referring to the deteriorating condition of the Karachi-Quetta highway, the prime minister described it as a “bloody highway” and said funds had been released for its reconstruction.
Earlier, addressing officers at the Command and Staff College Quetta, PM Shehbaz reiterated that Pakistan would not allow India to unilaterally alter the Indus Waters Treaty. He warned that water could not be used as a weapon.
Condemning Indian provocations, the premier referenced the Pahalgam incident, asserting that Pakistan responded both militarily and diplomatically. He praised the Pakistan Air Force for downing Indian jets and lauded Army Chief General Asim Munir for delivering a “historic victory.”
He affirmed the nation’s unwavering support for the armed forces in defending the country’s sovereignty. PM Shehbaz also welcomed foreign guests at the college, saying their presence reflected Pakistan’s strong international ties.
The prime minister arrived in Quetta on a day-long visit and was received by Acting Governor Abdul Khaliq Achakzai and Chief Minister Mir Sarfraz Bugti.
