Peace and Development in Balochistan Essential for National Prosperity: President Asif Ali Zardari

KARACHI/QUETTA: President Asif Ali Zardari has said that Balochistan is a fundamental pillar of Pakistan’s ideological and geographical integrity, stressing that sustainable peace, development, and political stability in the province are essential for national prosperity.
The remarks came during a meeting between the President and Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP) central leader Mir Shafiq-ur-Rehman Mengal in Karachi. The meeting discussed the overall political situation of the country, national unity, law and order in Balochistan, party affairs, and the upcoming by-election in NA-256.
Both leaders emphasized that Pakistan currently requires internal stability, political wisdom, and national harmony. They stressed that all democratic and federal stakeholders must rise above personal and group interests to strengthen state stability, constitutional supremacy, and democratic continuity.
President Zardari highlighted that political reconciliation, effective strategy, and engagement based on ground realities are essential for addressing the challenges in Balochistan and resolving public issues. He reiterated that Balochistan is a key pillar of Pakistan’s ideological and geographical completeness, and without peace and stability in the province, the dream of national prosperity cannot be achieved.
Mir Shafiq-ur-Rehman Mengal briefed the President on the overall situation in various districts of Balochistan, particularly Zhob and surrounding areas, including public issues, law and order needs, political workers’ activities, and party organisation matters. He said that the people of Balochistan have rejected politics of chaos and division and stand with a political narrative based on federal unity, constitutional struggle, public service, and democratic stability.
The meeting also discussed the NA-256 by-election in detail. Both sides expressed confidence that the PPP is actively present in the field with public trust, ideological commitment, and a strong organisational structure. It was agreed that the election is not just a contest for a seat but a significant milestone for democratic, progressive, and pro-federation politics in Balochistan.
Mir Shafiq-ur-Rehman Mengal reaffirmed that the PPP stands for public empowerment, constitutional supremacy, federal unity, and the protection of rights of underprivileged communities. He said that political forces must promote dialogue, wisdom, and national interest-based politics while discouraging elements that undermine peace and stability.
At the conclusion of the meeting, both leaders reiterated their commitment to continue efforts for strengthening Pakistan’s ideological foundation, democratic values, federal unity, and public rights, as well as ensuring peace, political stability, and development in Balochistan.