Quetta, 05 July – Chairman of the Pakistan People’s Party (PPP), Bilawal Bhutto Zardari, announced that a delegation from the PPP would actively participate in the All Parties Conference (APC) called by the Prime Minister. The primary aim of the APC is to establish peace and consensus on key national issues, including the fight against terrorism.
Addressing a press conference at the Chief Minister’s Secretariat in Quetta, Bilawal Bhutto Zardari emphasized the PPP’s strong commitment to combating terrorism and highlighted the party’s policy and dedication towards eliminating this threat from the nation.
“The PPP is in favor of reaching a consensus on all matters pertaining to the country, including fighting terrorism, as we have our own policy and a strong commitment to eliminating terrorism from the nation. The APC will provide an opportunity for all political parties to express their opinions,” he stated.
Accompanying the PPP Chairman were Chief Minister Balochistan Mir Sarfaraz Bugti, PPP Balochistan President Changez Jamali, and PPP MNA Ejaz Jhakrani. During his two-day visit to Balochistan, Bilawal Bhutto Zardari received briefings on the progress of ongoing uplift schemes and proposed development projects for the province. He also engaged in detailed deliberations with the provincial leadership and party workers.
Consensus on National Issues
Bilawal Bhutto Zardari emphasized the importance of developing a consensus on national issues, terming it crucial for the continuity of the democratic process and the stability of the country. Despite having reservations about certain national matters, such as the recent budget for the fiscal year 2024-25, he noted that the PPP refrained from creating obstacles in the public interest. He acknowledged the federal government’s cooperation in assisting with development projects proposed by the PPP for the welfare of their constituents.
Potential and Development in Balochistan
Regarding the briefing on Balochistan’s issues, Bilawal Bhutto Zardari highlighted the province’s untapped potential, especially in its mineral resources. He expressed his resolve to utilize these resources for the welfare of Balochistan’s people.
“The resources of the province will be utilized for the welfare of the people of Balochistan,” he affirmed.
The PPP Chairman also praised the ambitious agenda laid out by the Chief Minister of Balochistan for bringing tangible reforms in various sectors, including health, education, youth skill development, and women empowerment. He noted the state-of-the-art hospital planned on the pattern of Gambat Hospital and NIVCED and the Health on Wheels program aimed at providing health services in remote areas through the extension of Rescue 1122 services to 10 districts.
Compensation for 2022 Flood Affectees
Bilawal Bhutto Zardari urged the Balochistan government to expedite the compensation process for the affectees of the 2022 floods. He referenced a successful housing initiative in Sindh aimed at constructing homes for those who lost their houses in the calamity. This project aims to provide flood affectees with ownership of their new homes, which will serve as significant assets and offer substantial financial benefits once completed.
Women Empowerment and Economic Initiatives
The PPP Chairman expressed a strong desire to empower Balochistan’s women by providing them with interest-free loans, enabling their financial independence and participation in various sectors.
“We aim to empower women by providing them with interest-free loans because the People’s Party wants women to play a role in every sector,” he stated.
He also mentioned plans to establish a solar park through a public-private partnership, furthering the province’s development.
In response to a question about the budget allocation for Balochistan, Bilawal Bhutto Zardari expressed hope that the allocated funds would be released promptly, ensuring the province’s continued growth and development.
