Shehbaz links resurgence of terrorism to external support, vows accelerated development in Balochistan

Addressing participants at the Balochistan National Workshop in Islamabad, the prime minister said Pakistan had made significant sacrifices in its fight against terrorism and would continue taking every necessary step to eliminate militancy. He maintained that security forces, law enforcement agencies and the people of Pakistan had demonstrated unwavering resolve in confronting extremist violence over the past two decades.

Shehbaz claimed terrorism had been brought under control by 2018 but later re-emerged through what he described as an organised conspiracy backed from outside Pakistan. He alleged that India was providing support and resources to militant organisations operating against Pakistan, adding that such actions threatened regional peace and stability.

The prime minister also urged the Afghan interim government to ensure its territory was not used by militant groups to launch attacks against Pakistan. He said stronger cooperation between neighbouring countries was essential to prevent cross-border terrorism and maintain regional security.

Paying tribute to the victims of recent violence, Shehbaz expressed sorrow over the deaths of Sessions Judge Abdul Hakeem and a security official in the Mastung attack. He said the sacrifices of civilians and security personnel would not be forgotten and reaffirmed the government’s resolve to bring those responsible to justice.

Highlighting Pakistan’s anti-terrorism campaign, the prime minister said nearly 90,000 Pakistanis had lost their lives in the struggle against militancy. He praised the armed forces, police and other law enforcement institutions for their continued efforts to safeguard the country despite persistent security challenges.

Turning to Balochistan’s development, Shehbaz said the province remained central to Pakistan’s economic future and required greater investment because of its vast geography, scattered population and infrastructure needs. He stressed that balanced national development was impossible without ensuring rapid progress in Balochistan.

The prime minister said all provinces had supported Balochistan through the National Finance Commission (NFC) Award, describing the financial assistance as an expression of national unity rather than a favour. He noted that Punjab had contributed substantial financial resources to support the province’s development, while successive federal governments had prioritised infrastructure and public welfare schemes.

He said record development funds had been allocated during the tenure of the Pakistan Democratic Movement (PDM) government as well as under the current administration. According to the prime minister, these investments aimed to improve transportation, agriculture, energy and public services across the province.

Shehbaz highlighted the ongoing conversion of approximately 27,000 agricultural tube wells to solar energy, describing the initiative as a major relief measure for farmers facing rising electricity costs. He said the federal government had provided Rs50 billion for the Rs75 billion project, which would improve agricultural productivity while reducing energy expenses.

The prime minister also reviewed progress on major road infrastructure, saying work on the Karachi-Chaman dual carriageway was continuing at an estimated cost of Rs300 billion. He expressed confidence that the project would strengthen regional connectivity, facilitate trade and improve travel across Balochistan upon completion within the next two years.

Speaking about national unity, Shehbaz said the Baloch and Pashtun communities had played a historic role in the creation of Pakistan and continued to contribute to the country’s stability and progress. He praised Balochistan’s political leadership for placing national interests above personal considerations and working to strengthen the federation.

The prime minister also referred to Pakistan’s recent diplomatic and strategic achievements, saying the country’s efforts for regional peace were gaining international recognition. He commended the services of Field Marshal Asim Munir and Deputy Prime Minister Ishaq Dar, saying their contributions had strengthened Pakistan’s security and diplomatic position.

Concluding his address, Shehbaz said Pakistan must now intensify its focus on economic growth alongside national security. He stressed that peace, political stability and sustained development were interconnected goals, adding that the government remained committed to creating employment opportunities, expanding infrastructure and improving living standards across all provinces.

He said lasting prosperity could only be achieved through unity, continued investment in underdeveloped regions and collective efforts to overcome security and economic challenges facing the country.