PM Vows Equitable Development of Balochistan, Calls for Dialogue Over Violence
PM Shehbaz Sharif stated on Friday that the Federal government is committed to ensuring Balochistan’s equitable development and prosperity, emphasizing that the province’s legitimate grievances should be addressed through dialogue and mutual consultation rather than violence.
Addressing a question-and-answer session with participants of the Balochistan National Workshop, the prime minister noted that:
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Balochistan is endowed with vast mineral and natural resources, but their development requires investment, expertise, resources, and collaboration between the province and the federation.
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The natural resources of Balochistan primarily belong to its people, and their development should benefit them first and the rest of Pakistan afterward.
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The province’s vast geographical area and long distances between population centers present challenges in providing roads, education, healthcare, and other facilities, requiring a fair distribution of available resources.
Recalling Balochistan’s historic decision to join Pakistan, the prime minister said the province’s accession was based on conviction and voluntary choice, and the historical record carries lessons about resolving differences through mutual consultation and dialogue.
PM Shehbaz stated that:
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It is "never too late" to address outstanding issues.
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He calls for a grand, frank, and meaningful dialogue where all legitimate concerns can be discussed.
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He categorically rejects violence and targeting innocent people in the name of grievances, emphasizing that workers, teachers, engineers, and other contributors to Balochistan’s development should not be victims of terrorism.
Referring to the Karachi-Chaman N-25 project, the prime minister announced that the federal government has allocated Rs415 billion to transform the road into a "road of peace and development." The decision was taken after consultation with Field Marshal Syed Asim Munir, and the federal government has retained the provincial share from the reduction in petroleum prices to finance the project.
Work on the project has already begun, but the prime minister highlighted that terrorism remains a significant impediment to infrastructure development, stating:
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"If Rs200 billion or Rs300 billion are provided, but terrorists continue killing people day and night, not even an inch of road can be constructed."
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Development and security must progress together.
The prime minister reaffirmed that the state regards all four provinces as equal parts of one country and has a responsibility to provide its citizens with security, education, healthcare, and opportunities for prosperity. He noted that Balochistan’s mineral wealth cannot be rem
