Islamabad: Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has reiterated his commitment to advancing the development of all four provinces in Pakistan, emphasizing equitable resource distribution and federal support for major projects. Speaking in the National Assembly, he addressed concerns from the opposition, affirming the rights of provincial citizens to their resources and highlighting federal initiatives in Balochistan and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa.

According to Radio Pakistan, Sharif responded to opposition points by underscoring Parliament’s role as a collective body for provincial representation. He reaffirmed Balochistan’s rightful share in the Reko Diq project and cited past increases in the province’s allocation under the 2010 National Finance Commission Award. Notable initiatives include the allocation of 73 billion rupees for solarizing agricultural tube-wells and over 300 billion rupees for the Gwadar-Chaman dual carriageway.

On security, the Prime Minister defended the Durand Line fence as a justified expense for national safety and commended the efforts of security forces combating terrorism in Balochistan and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa. He also reiterated his willingness to engage in dialogue to resolve national issues.

The session also saw comments from opposition leader Mahmood Khan Achakzai and other members, who called for measures to support the poor, boost agriculture, and promote education and tourism. Suggestions included increasing salaries, expanding the tax net, and initiating development projects in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa. The budget discussion will continue as the House reconvenes on Sunday.