PM Shehbaz visits Quetta, vows to eliminate terrorism in Balochistan

QUETTA: Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif on Wednesday visited Quetta, where he received a comprehensive briefing on the security situation in Balochistan and reaffirmed the government’s resolve to eliminate terrorism and strengthen the writ of the state.

The prime minister was accompanied by Field Marshal Syed Asim Munir, Chief of Army Staff and Chief of Defence Forces, Minister for Economic Affairs Ahad Khan Cheema, Minister for Information and Broadcasting Attaullah Tarar, and Adviser to the Prime Minister on Political and Public Affairs Rana Sanaullah.

Governor Balochistan Jaffar Khan Mandokhel and Chief Minister Mir Sarfraz Bugti were also present during the visit.

During the briefing, officials apprised the prime minister of the overall security environment in the province, with particular focus on recent terrorist incidents, ongoing intelligence-based operations, and measures being undertaken by the armed forces and law enforcement agencies to ensure the safety and security of the people.

The prime minister paid tribute to the martyrs who laid down their lives in the line of duty and expressed solidarity with their families. He reaffirmed that the entire nation stands alongside the armed forces, law enforcement agencies and the people of Balochistan in the fight against terrorism.

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Shehbaz Sharif said lasting peace in Balochistan was essential for Pakistan’s stability, development and prosperity, adding that hostile attempts to derail the country’s progress would not be allowed to succeed.

Expressing concern over recent terrorist incidents, the prime minister acknowledged the sacrifices and commitment of law enforcement agencies combating what he described as Indian-sponsored terrorism in the province.

He reiterated the government’s policy of zero tolerance against terrorism in all its forms, stressing that Pakistan would dismantle both domestic and foreign-backed terrorist networks seeking to undermine peace and security in Balochistan.

The prime minister also reaffirmed that the federal government, in close coordination with the provincial administration, would continue supporting all efforts to eradicate terrorism, strengthen state institutions and ensure that the people of Balochistan can pursue a future of peace, development and prosperity.