PM Shehbaz calls for ‘grand dialogue’ to address Balochistan’s grievances

PM Shehbaz calls for 'grand dialogue' to address Balochistan's grievances.

Key points

• Recalling the 2010 National Finance Commission discussions, the PM remarked all four provinces had agreed to enhance funding for Balochistan.
• At least 21, 951 Pakistanis deported from Gulf states by March 1, NA informed.
• Addressing participants of the Balochistan National Workshop in Islamabad, PM Shehbaz remarked all genuine grievances should be discussed and resolved through peaceful and civilised means.
• Imran Khan sent back to Adiala jail after medical check-up at Shifa International Hospital.
• He remarked Punjab contributed Rs11 billion annually, reflecting the spirit of brotherhood and solidarity among the provinces.

Premier notes those willing to abandon violence and return to right path should be welcomed. PM notes govt ready to listen and resolve genuine grievances. He notes province's development crucial for Pakistan's progress. PM notes Balochistan's resources primarily belong to local residents.

Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif on Friday emphasised the need for a grand dialogue to address the problems being faced by Balochistan, saying that the administration is ready to listen to and resolve genuine grievances.

He remarked those willing to abandon violence and return to the right path should be welcomed. He additionally highlighted the importance of Gwadar Port, saying Balochistan's development is essential for Pakistan's overall progress.

Notably, the premier remarked the federal administration contributed Rs40 billion to a 70-billion-rupee project for the solarisation of agricultural tube wells in Balochistan under which over 20, 000 Balochistan tube wells have so far been converted to solar power.

For context, the premier reaffirmed that Balochistan must receive greater participation in development and welfare initiatives and remarked the province's share in various schemes has been kept above its population-based share.

Meanwhile, the PM highlighted that Balochistan is endowed with vast mineral and natural resources.

He stressed that these resources primarily belong to the individuals of the province and must be developed through cooperation between the federal and provincial governments.

He emphasised that the individuals of Balochistan should be the primary beneficiaries of the province's natural wealth, followed by the residents of Pakistan.

Meanwhile, the premier acknowledged that Balochistan faces genuine challenges, particularly due to its vast geographical area. It creates difficulties in providing education, healthcare, roads and other basic services.

He remarked such matters should be resolved through mutual consultation and the fair distribution of available resources so that all provinces can benefit.

Responding to a question, the PM remarked a number of Daanish Schools are being completed in different parts of the province to provide quality education to the deserving children. At least 21, 951 Pakistanis deported from Gulf states by March 1, NA informed. At least six killed in Mastung's Khad Kocha explosion: police.

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Taken together, the developments around PM Shehbaz calls for grand dialogue to address Balochistans grievances point to a situation that is still moving, and the coming days should bring more clarity.