QUETTA: Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif on Thursday stressed the need for “brotherhood and cooperation” with all provinces, particularly those facing challenges. Speaking to political leaders in Quetta, he also announced several development projects in Balochistan, including education and infrastructure initiatives worth billions of rupees.
The premier acknowledged the province’s long struggle with terrorism and lauded the sacrifices of Pakistan’s armed forces, Rangers, Levies, and ordinary citizens in combating extremism. He also highlighted ongoing efforts to counter support for banned groups like Tehreek-i-Taliban Pakistan from neighboring countries, affirming the government’s firm resolve to eradicate terrorism.
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PM Shehbaz recalled Balochistan’s historical share in the National Finance Commission (NFC) award, noting that Punjab contributed Rs11 billion annually from its share over 16 years to support development in the province. He emphasized that provincial cooperation is essential for national unity, saying, “Because when it comes to family, you sit and make decisions like brothers.”
Focusing on education and development, the prime minister announced the construction of five Daanish Schools and a Rs300 billion Chaman-Karachi Highway project. He stressed that these initiatives aim to provide quality education, improve infrastructure, and help reduce the influence of terrorist elements in the province.
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The PM concluded by underlining the government’s commitment to work closely with Balochistan’s chief minister and governor. He reiterated that bridging distances between provinces and supporting those facing challenges is a shared duty, describing it as a “journey of brotherhood and cooperation” for Pakistan.