Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif underscored the importance of resolving Balochistan’s challenges through dialogue and equitable resource sharing, stating that violence and armed conflict are not solutions to the province’s enduring problems. Speaking at the closing ceremony of the Balochistan National Workshop in Quetta on Friday, he emphasized the need to listen to the people of Balochistan and understand their concerns beyond formal government discussions.
He highlighted that Balochistan is home to both Baloch and Pashtun communities and praised the Baloch people for their bravery, hospitality, tolerance, and rich cultural heritage. The prime minister recalled that after Pakistan’s creation, various parts of Balochistan joined the country based on the genuine will of its elders and people.
In a significant development, Shehbaz Sharif asserted that the province possesses vast mineral resources and affirmed that the people of Balochistan have the primary right over these assets. He firmly rejected the use of arms to address grievances, stating that those resorting to violence do not represent Pakistan’s interests. He stressed that no one has the right to take lives based on identity and urged that all disputes be settled through meaningful dialogue.
Meanwhile, the prime minister accused hostile foreign elements of fueling terrorism in Balochistan and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa. He paid tribute to the sacrifices of the armed forces, law enforcement agencies, and civilians who have lost their lives protecting the nation. Referring to the recent “Marka-e-Haq,” he noted the unity displayed by the entire country during that period.
Focusing on development and connectivity, Shehbaz Sharif revealed ongoing collaboration with Field Marshal Syed Asim Munir on the construction of the N-25 highway, which connects Karachi to Chaman. He lamented attacks on workers involved in this vital infrastructure project. The prime minister also highlighted Gwadar Port’s strategic importance, noting its capacity to handle cargo ships up to 100,000 tonnes, and described the Gwadar International Airport as a gift from Pakistan’s close ally, China.
He further announced the federal government’s initiative to convert 22,000 agricultural tubewells in Balochistan to solar power, a project costing Rs70 billion, with Rs40 billion funded federally. On education, Shehbaz Sharif stated that Daanish schools are being established in nine districts to ensure children in underdeveloped areas receive quality education. He reiterated that all four federating units are equal partners in Pakistan’s development.
Highlighting fiscal support, the prime minister mentioned increased allocations for Balochistan under the National Finance Commission Award. He noted Punjab’s contribution of Rs11 billion to the province and emphasized the shared responsibility of provinces and the federal government in national progress. Planning Minister Ahsan Iqbal added that the federal Public Sector Development Programme has a budget of Rs1 trillion, with Rs200 billion earmarked for Balochistan compared to Rs70 billion for Punjab.
Addressing economic and agricultural matters, Shehbaz Sharif pointed out a 21 percent rise in Pakistan’s IT exports, describing it as a positive sign for the economy. He also announced an Rs11 billion subsidy for rice farmers. The prime minister reiterated that peace and stability are essential for sustained development and warned that ongoing terrorism in Balochistan and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa could obstruct economic growth.
He directed the petroleum minister to resolve the issue of gas load-shedding in Balochistan ahead of the upcoming winter. Balochistan Chief Minister Sarfraz Bugti expressed gratitude to the prime minister for involving provincial representatives in the workshop and welcomed the solar power initiative for agricultural tubewells, highlighting its benefits for farmers.
Concluding, Shehbaz Sharif affirmed the government’s commitment to advancing development, enhancing public services, and addressing the concerns of Balochistan’s people through continuous dialogue and cooperation.
