Staff Reporter
Chief Minister Balochistan, Mir Abdul Quddus Bizenjo has said that the influx of Afghan refugees was a burden on the province. “This has economic and security impacts on Balochistan”, Mr. Bizenjo told the visiting British High Commissioner, Dr. Christian Turner on Thursday. Provincial ministers were also present on the occasion.
The High Commissioner also visited the Pak-Afghan border Chaman to see firsthand how the UK and Pakistan are working together to help the people of Afghanistan. During his visit, he was briefed by Pakistani officials on border processes, and how authorities are working with the UNHCR, the United Nations refugee agency.
Speaking on the occasion, the Chief Minister termed the law and order situation satisfactory. “Comparatively, the law and order situation has improved after security forces operations”, the CM said. He said only a handful of elements at the behest of enemies of Pakistan were carrying out some terror acts. “Our forces are bravely fighting against the terrorists”, Mr. Bizenjo stated.
BHC discussed issues in Afghanistan and its impacts on Balochistan with CM
It was part of a wider visit to Balochistan, during which he met the Chief Minister of Balochistan, Mir Abdul Quddus Bizenjo, and discussed how the issues in Afghanistan are affecting Balochistan, as well as the wider security situation in the area, and the protection of human rights. During his two-day trip, the High Commissioner also met Comd 12 Corps, Lieutenant General Sarfraz, and gave a keynote speech at the Quetta Staff and Command College.
“It’s very important for the UK to understand the issues facing Balochistan. During my visit to the Chaman Border, I saw how the UK is working to help the people of Afghanistan, and that this is vital for the stability of the whole region”, a press release quoting the BHC said. Last week, the UK’s Foreign Secretary Liz Truss pledged £97m of additional funds to help Afghanistan this winter.
