Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has expressed deep concern over the resurgence of terrorism in Balochistan and other parts of Pakistan, emphasizing that peace and prosperity depend on collective national resolve.

Addressing the Balochistan Workshop, he said security agencies are making daily sacrifices to restore peace, and that the province’s development is crucial to the country’s overall progress.

The prime minister noted that terrorism had been completely eradicated by 2018, but its re-emergence in recent years demands reflection and a united response. “We need to review what caused this unrest,” he said. “Our security agencies are sacrificing every day for peace.”

He added that ignoring Balochistan in the past was an act of collective negligence and called for self-accountability. “The development of Balochistan is directly linked to the prosperity of Pakistan,” Shehbaz remarked.

Karachi-Chaman highway to be transformed

Highlighting the frequent and deadly accidents on the Karachi-Chaman highway, the PM announced that the route — often called the “bloody road” — will be upgraded and widened into a two-lane highway at an estimated cost of Rs300 billion.

“Lives are being lost every day on this road. We will turn this bloody road into a road of peace,” he said. “If there is a fire, we must put it out together — unity is the only path to progress.”

Balochistan’s wealth and potential

Shehbaz praised Balochistan as Pakistan’s largest province in terms of area and lauded the Baloch leaders’ voluntary decision to join Pakistan at the time of independence. “The history, culture, and traditions of Balochistan make it unique,” he said.

However, he lamented that the province’s vast natural wealth remains untapped. “It is a pity that Balochistan’s resources are still buried underground, despite Allah blessing it with inexhaustible natural wealth,” the Prime Minister said.

He praised the Baloch people for their open-heartedness, hospitality, and the harmony maintained among various communities.

Challenges of geography and infrastructure

The premier acknowledged that Balochistan’s challenging geography has slowed its development, especially in delivering basic services like electricity and road connectivity to remote areas.

“Without a strong road network, progress in education and industry is not possible,” he said. “We must ensure infrastructure development reaches every corner of the province.”

Unity, federation as Pakistan’s strength

Shehbaz Sharif emphasized that national unity is essential for Pakistan’s stability and greatness. He praised Punjab’s historic sacrifice in the 2010 NFC Award, calling it a testament to federal spirit and brotherhood.

“The spirit of the federation lies in mutual sacrifice and harmony,” he said. “The country will become great with everyone’s efforts — we must work together to secure peace and progress.”