Islamabad: Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has called for a comprehensive dialogue to address the pressing issues in Balochistan, emphasizing peaceful and civilized discussions to resolve grievances. Speaking at the Balochistan National Workshop in Islamabad, he highlighted the government’s commitment to listening to and addressing the concerns of the province’s leaders and citizens.

According to Radio Pakistan, the Prime Minister underscored the strategic importance of Gwadar Port as part of Balochistan’s development, which he deemed crucial for Pakistan’s overall progress. He announced that the federal government has already contributed forty billion rupees to a project aimed at solarizing over 20,000 agricultural tube wells in the province. This initiative represents part of a broader 70-billion-rupee project designed to enhance Balochistan’s infrastructure.

The Prime Minister also referenced the 2010 National Finance Commission discussions, noting the collaborative agreement among all four provinces to increase funding for Balochistan. He pointed out that Punjab’s annual contribution of eleven billion rupees reflects inter-provincial solidarity.

Shehbaz Sharif reiterated the need for Balochistan’s increased participation in development and welfare projects, ensuring that the province receives a share of initiatives exceeding its population-based allocation. He emphasized that the province’s rich mineral and natural resources should benefit its people first, followed by the broader Pakistani population.

Acknowledging the challenges posed by Balochistan’s vast geographical area, the Prime Minister highlighted the difficulties in providing essential services such as education, healthcare, and infrastructure. He advocated for resolving these issues through mutual consultation and an equitable distribution of resources across provinces.

In response to inquiries, the Prime Minister mentioned the ongoing completion of Daanish Schools in various parts of Balochistan, aimed at delivering quality education to deserving children.