QUETTA: Pakistan’s President Asif Ali Zardari emphasized the imperative of fostering stability in Balochistan and throughout the nation during a meeting on Tuesday. He reaffirmed the commitment to engage with all political forces in the province to secure its future. The President received updates on law and order as well as ongoing development initiatives in Balochistan.
Attended by Minister for Interior Mohsin Naqvi, Governor Balochistan Shaikh Jaffar Khan Mandokhel, Chief Minister Mir Sarfraz Bugti, provincial ministers, and senior federal and provincial authorities, the meeting aimed to address pressing issues.
President Zardari highlighted the detrimental impact of smuggling on the national economy and the nexus between terrorism and narcotics trade. He emphasized the necessity of creating job opportunities, particularly in border areas, and proposed the initiation of joint consultations to formulate a national stance against terrorism.
Efforts to combat terrorism were urged to continue, alongside the provision of essential services and economic upliftment in the province. President Zardari suggested replicating successful models, such as Sindh’s youth training programs, in Balochistan and advocated for inter-provincial cooperation in various sectors. Additionally, he proposed leveraging the Ministry of Foreign Affairs to facilitate job opportunities for skilled youth abroad.
The meeting addressed the necessity of federal support for key infrastructure projects, including the Burj Azam Khan Dam, Kachhi Canal, and road networks. Chief Minister Bugti highlighted governance challenges, climate change concerns, and security issues, stressing the urgency of timely fund allocation for development projects.
In pursuit of peace and progress, the importance of dialogue and consensus-building at the national level was underscored. Cooperation on development projects and addressing climate change impacts were among the priorities discussed, underscoring the collaborative effort required for Balochistan’s prosperity and stability.
