Afghanistan Trade Must Be Legal, Says Former Caretaker PM Anwar-ul-Haq Kakar
Islamabad: Former Caretaker Prime Minister Senator Anwar-ul-Haq Kakar emphasized that trade with Afghanistan should only occur through legal channels, warning that ending smuggling would benefit the Pakistani public.
Kakar was addressing students participating in the “Winter Internship 2026,” organized by the Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR) to foster intellectual development among youth. During a special session, he highlighted misleading propaganda by external forces regarding Balochistan.
“The insurgent elements have created armed groups in Balochistan based on false narratives. These groups do not believe in dialogue because their interest lies not in reconciliation, but in conflict and instability,” Kakar said.
He stressed that it is the constitutional and legal right of state institutions to respond to groups that threaten the safety and property of citizens. “In the context of regional security, the Pakistan Armed Forces have implemented effective strategies despite limited budgets and resources,” he added.
Kakar noted that unlike the past, Balochistan now has thousands of operational schools, colleges, universities, and hospitals. With federal support, local business communities and political leadership are also advancing significantly.
He called for a collective effort from the state, media, and public to ensure harmony, reconciliation, and development in Balochistan. “Only through the active participation of the people can the negative narrative of extremists be countered and sustainable peace established,” he said.
