Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has called for national self-reflection, stressing the need to address decades of neglect faced by Balochistan. Speaking during his visit to the province on Saturday, he said that Pakistan must hold itself accountable for the slow pace of development in its largest region.
The prime minister noted that Balochistan, rich in natural resources and culture, had long been overlooked in national progress plans. “Allah has blessed Balochistan with countless natural resources, yet much of its wealth still lies untapped,” he said. His remarks highlighted the importance of self-reflection in understanding why the province’s potential remains unrealized.
Shehbaz Sharif also spoke about the geographical challenges that have hindered development in remote areas. He said that without proper roads and electricity, it was difficult to promote education, industry, and trade. To improve infrastructure, he announced the expansion of the Karachi–Chaman Highway into a dual carriageway at an estimated cost of Rs350 billion. “We want to turn this ‘bloody road’ into a road of peace,” he said.
The prime minister praised the resilience, hospitality, and unity of the Baloch people. He said that Baloch leaders had voluntarily joined Pakistan at the time of independence, making the province a symbol of loyalty and strength.
Reflecting on the spirit of national solidarity, PM Sharif recalled Punjab’s sacrifice in the 2010 NFC Award, which aimed to strengthen provincial cooperation. “All provinces are part of one family. We are Pakistanis first, and residents of our provinces later,” he said.
He urged all political and social leaders to engage in self-reflection to ensure fairness and equality across the country. The prime minister also paid tribute to Pakistan’s security forces for their sacrifices in maintaining peace and stability.
With a message of unity, accountability, and national progress, Shehbaz Sharif’s call for self-reflection underscored his vision of a stronger and more inclusive Pakistan.
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