Web Desk:Â
QUETTA: The three-day Pashtun Qaumi Jirga concluded in Quetta with prominent leader Mahmood Khan Achakzai urging unity among Pashtuns, adherence to the Constitution, and sustainable protection for political and economic rights across local communities.
​Addressing the gathering, Mahmood Khan Achakzai stated that the political and socio-economic challenges facing Balochistan and Pashtun-majority areas cannot be solved by a single group or individual, emphasizing collective action and public consultation. He framed the Pashtun Qaumi Jirga as an inclusive representative assembly dedicated to the future, well-being, and rights of the Pashtun people.
​Achakzai emphasized national equality, stating that Pakistan belongs to all its constituent groups under equal standing. He reiterated that peaceful dialogue and democratic processes remain the only sustainable paths to long-term stability and progress.
​Rejecting negative stereotypes, the leader characterized the Pashtun community as peaceful, hospitable, and law-abiding. He advocated for peace-building measures to secure regional territories. Addressing civic concerns in Balochistan, Achakzai expressed concern over extortion, kidnappings, and local violence, stressing that civil governance and public trust must be reinforced to safeguard citizens.
​He highlighted that broader stability depends on constitutional supremacy, parliamentary sovereignty, judicial independence, and respect for the democratic franchise. Recognizing public mandates, he noted, remains critical for economic confidence and governance.
​Highlighting natural Pashtun resources and mineral wealth—including coal, copper, gold, and lithium—Achakzai urged that local populations benefit primarily from these assets through transparent, consensus-based arrangements. “Our land is rich in mineral potential, yet our youth feel compelled to seek opportunities abroad,” he said, calling for greater alignment between regional assets and local economic growth.
​On regional policy and Pakistan Afghanistan relations, Achakzai linked stability in Afghanistan directly to peace in neighboring areas. He encouraged constructive Pakistan Afghanistan relations based on mutual respect, while urging measures to streamline legal trade, family visits, and cross-border commercial ties between the two nations.
