President Zardari Advocates for Dialogue and Development in Balochistan
President Asif Ali Zardari on Tuesday underscored the critical importance of dialogue, enhanced governance, improved connectivity, and effective water management to tackle the multifaceted challenges facing Balochistan. He firmly stated that Pakistan's overall progress is inextricably linked to the stability and development of the province. The president made these remarks during an interactive session with participants of the National Workshop Balochistan-19 at the Presidency in Islamabad.
Creating a Conducive Environment for Growth
President Zardari highlighted the necessity of fostering an atmosphere of "workability" within Balochistan to prevent outward migration driven by a lack of local opportunities. He pointed out that while Balochistan is endowed with abundant mineral resources, it requires sustained, long-term development initiatives rather than short-term fixes. The president noted that connectivity has seen improvement following the 18th Constitutional Amendment, particularly through the construction of several bridges over the Indus River that link Balochistan with other regions of the country.
Water Security as a Top Priority
Amid his address, President Zardari identified water as a critical issue for the province. He detailed ongoing efforts to minimize seepage losses through canal lining projects, emphasizing that water conservation is vital not only for agriculture but also for mining activities in Balochistan. The president declared water security one of his foremost priorities and revealed that efforts are underway to explore regional options, including potential water cooperation initiatives with Tajikistan, to support irrigation needs in the province.
Gwadar Port and Economic Opportunities
Referring to Gwadar Port, President Zardari articulated his vision to ensure that dividends from the port's development are equitably shared with local tribes and communities, especially those residing along the road corridors leading to Gwadar. He expressed confidence that the port has the potential to evolve into a major economic hub, provided stakeholders collaborate to create a conducive investment environment. The president also stressed that the people of Balochistan should fully benefit from opportunities generated under the China–Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC), which he described as a future trade route connecting the province to regional and global markets.
Path to Sustainable Peace and Unity
President Zardari underscored the importance of unity and internal reflection in addressing the province's challenges, asserting that dialogue and democratic engagement remain the only viable path forward. "War is no solution to crises," he stated, urging all stakeholders to resolve differences through consultation and cooperation. He called for responsible handling of security challenges, noting that attacks on foreign nationals, particularly Chinese teachers and workers, are regrettable and detrimental to Pakistan's interests. The president reiterated the need to counter insurgency through national cohesion and constructive engagement.
Commitment to Development and Integration
The president emphasized that sustainable peace in Balochistan necessitates improved resource utilization, investment-friendly conditions, and a greater focus on youth development, agriculture modernization, and support for small landowners through targeted subsidies and specialized farming equipment. He reaffirmed Pakistan's commitment to strengthening ties with regional partners and highlighted the significance of ports in Balochistan and Sindh for national economic growth, noting that other provinces would also benefit from access to maritime trade routes. President Zardari concluded by asserting that the government will continue to provide resources and support for Balochistan's development and its integration into the national mainstream.
The session was attended by notable figures including former Prime Minister Raja Pervaiz Ashraf, parliamentarian Sardar Yar Muhammad Rind, and Member of the National Assembly Khalid Magsi. The proceedings of the workshop were coordinated by Brigadier Bilal Ghafoor, Commander Signals 12 Corps.
