Govt to 'resolve issue through dialogue'

QUETTA:

The Balochistan government Friday strongly condemned the recent acts of terrorism in the province, describing them a well-orchestrated plot by hostile elements and assured that firm action would be taken against those responsible for violence.

Speaking at a press conference at the Chief Minister's Secretariat, Provincial Planning Minister Mir Zahoor Buledi, Finance Minister Mir Shoaib Nosherwani, and Balochistan Government Spokesperson Shahid Rind expressed deep concern over the Jaffar Express attack earlier this month.

"Innocent passengers were taken hostage and brutally murdered," Buledi told reporters, alluding to the seizure of the Jaffar Express. He also denounced Thursday's Gwadar bus attack, in which civilians were forcibly removed from the vehicle and shot dead execution style.

Buledi mourned the loss of renowned doctor, Mehrullah Tareen, who was targeted and killed despite his contributions to public welfare. He stressed that the government viewed these incidents with the utmost seriousness and would not allow any forces to hinder the province's progress.

On the occasion, Nosherwani acknowledged that Balochistan was facing a surge in terrorist activities but assured that the authorities, with public support, were committed to eradicating the threat. He also admitted to governance and development challenges in some areas but affirmed that efforts were under way to address these shortcomings and strengthen security.

Government Spokesperson Shahid Rind reiterated the government's commitment to resolving issues through dialogue, highlighting that Chief Minister Sarfaraz Bugti had invited the opposition for negotiations to tackle pressing concerns.

Spokesperson Shahid Rind reaffirmed that the government's stance against terrorism remained unwavering and warned that those engaging in ethnically or identity-motivated violence would face severe consequences.

The provincial ministers and spokesperson assured that all possible measures were being taken to safeguard citizens and maintain law and order, stressing that terrorist activities would not be tolerated under any circumstances.