QUETTA: Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif: Grievances of Balochistan Can Be Resolved Through Dialogue, But Terrorism Is Unacceptable
Islamabad – Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, addressing the Balochistan Grand Jirga, firmly stated that while the concerns and complaints of the people of Balochistan can be resolved through dialogue and mutual understanding, terrorism in any form cannot be tolerated.
The event was attended by Field Marshal Syed Asim Munir along with the political leadership of Balochistan.
The Prime Minister emphasized that peace and development cannot go hand in hand with unrest.
He urged collective efforts to rehabilitate those who were misled or deviated from the right path.
He also announced that 25% of the upcoming Public Sector Development Programme (PSDP) will be allocated specifically for Balochistan, a step he termed as a major development for the province.
He commended the people of Balochistan and the entire nation for their unity during the recent Indian aggression on May 6, 7, and 10, highlighting the bravery and swift response of the Pakistan Armed Forces, who delivered a memorable defeat to the enemy.
Shehbaz Sharif praised Field Marshal Asim Munir’s courageous and strategic leadership, stating that under his command, Pakistan not only defended its honor but also avenged past wounds, including those of 1971.
Referring to Pakistan’s nuclear strength, he recalled how Pakistan’s six nuclear tests in response to India’s five had sent a strong message to the world.
He reiterated that while issues among brothers can be resolved at the discussion table, there can be no compromise with those who shed innocent blood and hinder the country’s progress.
He called for national unity against such elements and stressed the need for collaborative efforts to fill the existing governance gaps through consultation.
“Even if we have to spend not 160 billion but 1,600 billion rupees for Balochistan’s welfare, it would still be insufficient,” he stated.
The Prime Minister also announced a 70-billion-rupee development initiative for Balochistan’s farmers in collaboration with the provincial government.
He mentioned the long-overdue N-25 Chaman-Quetta-Karachi Highway project, once known as the “bloody highway,” for which funding has now been secured. Additionally, 250 billion rupees will be allocated in the upcoming PSDP exclusively for Balochistan.
Shehbaz Sharif reaffirmed that the 25% share in the federal development budget is the rightful due of Balochistan.
ALSO READ: Karachi-Chaman highway to be upgraded into expressway: PM
Under his leadership, he assured, there will be no economic or social injustice towards the province. Citing the recent tragic incident in Surab, he concluded by saying that just as fire and water cannot coexist, development and instability cannot go together — only unity and mutual trust can pave the way forward.
