PM extends olive branch to opposition

Renews call for dialogue, Charter of Democracy

Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif on Saturday defended the government's commitment to balanced provincial development, stressing that progress could only be sustained through financial. social justice.

He also renewed his offer to the opposition for dialogue and a charter of democracy.

Speaking on the floor of the National Assembly, the prime minister responded to concerns raised by Opposition Leader Mehmood Khan Achakzai, particularly regarding provincial rights, development funding. the country's security situation.

While stating that he would not provide a "detailed response" to Achakzai's criticism at this stage. he said he would do so at an "appropriate time".

The remarks came a day after the federal government unveiled the FY27 budget. Earlier in the sitting, which began at 11am, Achakzai had focused much of his speech on the law. order situation and slammed the government's decision to freeze development allocations for provinces, arguing that the move would adversely affect health and social sectors.

Emphasising the importance of national cohesion, PM Shehbaz said all members of parliament deserved respect. that the legislature functioned as a collective national forum.

"Each one can have their politics. vision, but one thing that this House will always attest to is that we are here if Pakistan is."

"There is no difference of opinion on this," he added. while referring to Achakzai's assertion that provinces were entitled to their financial resources.

The premier said it was the federal government's responsibility to ensure that all provinces advanced together. Recalling a range of development initiatives undertaken in Balochistan, he noted that such projects were pursued not because of political demands. because of the state's obligation to its citizens.

"You did not demand this, nor did someone else. But as the prime minister of Pakistan. it is my responsibility to do my best so that all four provinces are at the same level in the race to progress."

"If this will be our collective desire and practical attempt, then this is among the possibilities."

The prime minister referred to the province's share in the Reko Diq project as well as the 2010 National Finance Commission (NFC) Award. under which Balochistan's share was doubled.

He said these examples were not intended as political point-scoring but rather as reminders of the importance of equitable treatment.

The premier also cited the distribution of solar panels to farmers in Balochistan. the construction of a road linking Chaman and Gwadar. "This is a tale of brotherhood."

Turning to security issues, PM Shehbaz referred to Achakzai's comments regarding the armed forces. paid tribute to military personnel who had lost their lives in service to the country. He recalled that 22 army officers and personnel were martyred in a recent helicopter crash in Azad Jammu and Kashmir.

The prime minister also pointed to the continuing threat of militancy in Balochistan. saying terrorist activities in the province were receiving "technical support" from certain actors.

Addressing Achakzai's remarks on the Durand Line, he said: "The Durand Line you spoke about - it is your opinion. we respect it - but I think that it was an absolutely appropriate move if that line was put up for the security of Pakistan and its people.

"If the billions of rupees spent on that 2,000-km line save the life of even one child. then I think that the entire money was spent the right way."

The premier also referred to the resurgence of terrorism in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa. acknowledged the sacrifices made by security personnel in defending the country.

"If we do not respect our martyrs, what will the world say? Keep the world aside, what will their orphaned children [say]?"

Recalling his past cordial interactions with Achakzai, the "good old days", PM Shehbaz stressed the need for unity. consensus in addressing national challenges.

He concluded by reiterating his invitation to the opposition to engage in talks and work towards a charter of democracy.

Comments are moderated and generally will be posted if they are on-topic and not abusive.

For more information, please see ourComments FAQ