Balochistan’s Wealth Still Buried Underground: PM Shehbaz

Islamabad: Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has expressed regret that the vast natural wealth of Balochistan still remains untapped beneath the ground.

Addressing participants of the National Workshop Balochistan, the Prime Minister said that Balochistan, Pakistan’s largest province by area, plays a key role in the country’s overall progress and development. He noted that Baloch leaders had voluntarily chosen to join Pakistan at the time of independence — a shining example of national unity.

Shehbaz Sharif said that God has blessed Balochistan with immense natural resources, but unfortunately, the province’s wealth still lies buried underground. He described the decades-long neglect of Balochistan’s development as a moment for national self-reflection.

The Prime Minister added that providing electricity, roads, and other basic facilities to remote areas of Balochistan remains a major challenge. He emphasized that the province’s development is directly linked to Pakistan’s prosperity. Referring to the 2010 National Finance Commission (NFC) Award, he said that Punjab’s contribution at that time was a true symbol of national solidarity.

Shehbaz Sharif stressed that consensus and cooperation among the provinces are the foundation of a strong Pakistan. However, he acknowledged that Balochistan’s vast geography has posed challenges to its development.

Commenting on security, the Prime Minister said that terrorism had been completely eradicated in 2018, but unfortunately, the threat has re-emerged. He reaffirmed that Pakistan’s security forces continue to make sacrifices for peace and stability, and the nation stands firmly alongside them.