Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif chaired a high-level meeting in Quetta to review the law and order situation in Balochistan, following a recent surge in terrorist activities.
The meeting focused on strategies to combat terrorism and ensure the province's continued development and prosperity.
During the meeting, the prime minister condemned the recent tragic incident in Kalat, where 23 terrorists had been killed and 18 soldiers martyred. He paid tribute to the security forces and the brave youth who sacrificed their lives to protect the nation.
"Terrorists are enemies of Balochistan's peace, development, and prosperity. They do not want the people of Balochistan to be happy, educated, or employed," said PM Sharif.
The PM reiterated the government's unwavering commitment to Balochistan's development, stating that it remains a top priority. He emphasized that the cowardly actions of terrorists would not deter the government's resolve.
"The journey of Balochistan's development will continue. We are taking steps to provide quality health and education facilities, as well as employment opportunities for the youth," he added. “Balochistan, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, and Pakistan will become the cradle of peace. The development of Balochistan and KP is necessary for the development of Pakistan.”
Highlighting recent initiatives, PM Sharif mentioned the special quota allocated for Balochistan students in educational programs abroad, including those sent to China. He also praised the Youth Program and the Prime Minister Laptop Scheme for empowering Balochistan's students. Additionally, he noted the solarisation of agricultural tube wells to boost the province's agricultural sector.
The PM also underscored the importance of the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) and Gwadar Port in transforming Pakistan into a regional connectivity hub.
"Work on CPEC is progressing rapidly. Gwadar Airport has commenced flight operations, and Gwadar Port will play a key role in Pakistan's development," he said, adding that this was not the time for divisions and politics.
“We can do politics later, but today, a big challenge is facing the nation. Let us all face this challenge with unity and solidarity. After we establish peace, we can do politics,” he remarked. “Due to some blatant mistakes of the past, our brave soldiers are bearing the brunt. The need to create unity among the people has never been greater than today.
Shehbaz lauded the efforts of the military leadership and security forces, who are working tirelessly to ensure peace in Balochistan.
Earlier, during his visit to Combined Military Hospital (CMH) Quetta, the PM met with the security personnel injured in the recent terrorist attacks and praised their unwavering determination. "You are all heroes of the nation. The entire nation, including me, is proud of you and your families, who embody the spirit of sacrifice," he told the injured soldiers, while acknowledging a renewed wave of terrorism in the country.
He said the injured soldiers exclaimed they were being provided the best treatment facilities.
In his concluding remarks, PM Sharif called for national unity and solidarity to overcome the challenges posed by terrorism. "This is not the time for divisions or politics. We must face this challenge together with unity and determination. If we establish peace, the political arena will flourish, and Pakistan will rise as a great nation," he asserted.
