Hafeezullah Sherani:
QUETTA: A seminar titled “Prevention and Countering Terrorism in Balochistan, Pakistan” was held on June 26, 2024, at BUITEMS, Quetta, highlighting the urgent need for international cooperation to combat terrorism. Organized by BUITEMS and PDRE, the event underscored the severe impact of terrorism on the region and discussed strategies for its prevention.
Prof. Dr. Abdul Wadood, Dean of Social Sciences at BUITEMS, detailed the changing dynamics and new challenges of terrorism in Balochistan. “Terrorism in Balochistan harmed women, children, the aged, and young people,” he stated, emphasizing the detrimental effects on daily life and development.
Dr. Siraj Bashir, Director of Research at Balochistan Think Tank Network, focused on youth engagement and socio-economic solutions. He noted, “Young people in a democratic government have freedom of expression, which enables them to express themselves without much ado,” highlighting the importance of addressing youth needs to counter terrorism.
Ms. Faiza Mir from the University of Balochistan discussed conflict management strategies, using Balochistan as a case study. “Various strategies can be used to tackle the conflicts peacefully and without using violence,” she explained, advocating for non-violent conflict resolution.
Prof. Dr. Zahid Anwar, Pro Vice-Chancellor (R) of the University of Peshawar, analyzed the geopolitical shifts following NATO’s 2001 occupation of Afghanistan and their regional impact. “For the last 24 years, our region remained the center of the war against global terrorism,” he observed.
The seminar concluded that terrorism hinders foreign investment and development projects in Balochistan, stressing the need for effective counter-terrorism measures to ensure the region’s stability and progress.
