News Desk: Balochistan Chief Minister Mir Sarfraz Bugti on Monday declared that Pakistan’s sovereignty, territorial integrity, and national security were non-negotiable, stressing that the provincial government remained open to dialogue only within the framework of the Constitution of Pakistan.
Speaking to participants of the 20th National Workshop Balochistan, Bugti said Pakistan and Balochistan were inseparable, describing their relationship as permanent and unbreakable. He maintained that while the government welcomed constitutional dialogue, there could be no negotiations with anyone seeking to undermine the country’s unity or challenge its sovereignty.
The chief minister warned that terrorist groups, along with coordinated anti-state propaganda on social media, were attempting to spread hatred and instability. He said such campaigns were part of a broader effort to weaken Pakistan and create divisions, adding that the state would decisively counter every attempt aimed at destabilizing the country.
Bugti dismissed claims that underdevelopment was the root cause of terrorism in Balochistan. He argued that districts such as Turbat had experienced considerable development over the years, yet violence persisted, demonstrating that extremist ideology—not a lack of development—was the driving force behind terrorism.
He further alleged that anti-state elements were not interested in improving the lives of the people but were pursuing an agenda to impose their ideology through violence. According to the chief minister, such groups sought to fragment Pakistan, an objective that would never be allowed to succeed.
Reaffirming the government’s position, Bugti said the administration was prepared to discuss all legitimate political and public issues within the constitutional framework. However, he emphasized that any agenda aimed at weakening or dividing Pakistan was beyond the scope of dialogue.
The chief minister acknowledged that citizens could have legitimate concerns regarding governance, public service delivery, and administrative performance. He said the provincial government was introducing reforms to improve governance while making it clear that there would be no compromise on Pakistan’s security, sovereignty, or national unity.
Highlighting efforts to promote transparency, Bugti announced that the Balochistan government would introduce artificial intelligence (AI) in the recruitment process for public-sector jobs. He said the technology would ensure merit-based, transparent, and impartial hiring, providing equal opportunities to qualified candidates and helping restore the confidence of the province’s youth.
Following his address, the chief minister engaged in an extensive question-and-answer session with participants of the workshop, responding to a wide range of issues. The interactive session continued for more than two and a half hours.
