Web Desk: The business community in Quetta on Thursday postponed its planned wheel-jam and shutter-down strike after successful negotiations with the Balochistan government, paving the way for the restoration of normal commercial activities in the provincial capital.
The breakthrough came during a meeting between Balochistan Home Minister Mir Ziaullah Langove and representatives of the Balochistan Business Alliance and Action Committee at the Quetta Chamber of Commerce and Industry. Additional Chief Secretary (Home) Hamza Shafqaat and Deputy Commissioner Quetta Mehrullah Badini also participated in the discussions.
Addressing business leaders, Langove said the government considers itself accountable to the people and remains committed to resolving issues faced by traders and transporters. He stressed that maintaining peace and protecting economic activity are among the provincial government’s top priorities.
The minister warned that hostile elements are attempting to undermine security and economic progress in Balochistan by targeting businesses, public infrastructure, and security institutions. He said such efforts are aimed at disrupting development and creating uncertainty in the province.
Langove emphasized that the government, business community, and citizens must work together to defeat forces seeking to harm economic growth and stability. He assured traders that their concerns would be addressed on a priority basis and directed relevant authorities to ensure swift implementation of agreed measures.
He also praised Additional Chief Secretary Hamza Shafqaat and Deputy Commissioner Mehrullah Badini for facilitating productive dialogue that helped resolve differences between the government and the business community.
Reaffirming the government’s commitment to democratic values, Langove said peaceful protest is a constitutional right, adding that authorities would continue engaging stakeholders through consultation and dialogue. He further pledged to facilitate discussions between traders and federal authorities on matters beyond the provincial government’s jurisdiction.
The minister thanked business leaders for postponing the strike and expressed confidence that continued cooperation would strengthen investor confidence, boost trade activities, and support long-term economic development in Balochistan.
