No Successful Example of Negotiating with Armed Terrorist Groups Anywhere in the World, Says Balochistan CM Sarfraz Bugti

Quetta: Balochistan Chief Minister Mir Sarfraz Bugti has said that there is no successful example anywhere in the world of ending terrorism through negotiations with armed militant groups, emphasizing that Pakistan will continue to pursue a comprehensive strategy combining security, governance, and economic development.

Speaking during a private television program, Bugti said the situation in Balochistan is neither as ideal as some portray nor as bleak as critics claim. He added that negative perceptions and one-sided narratives harm not only the province but also Pakistan and its state institutions.

The chief minister criticized national media for highlighting Balochistan only during security incidents while ignoring the province’s development and reforms. He said the government has launched several youth welfare initiatives, improved services in public hospitals, activated all government schools, and recruited around 17,000 teachers on merit through a transparent process.

Bugti said the creation of new divisions and districts aims to strengthen governance, improve administrative efficiency, and ensure better delivery of public services in remote areas.

Referring to security challenges, he claimed that the international community stands with the Pakistani state against terrorism. He also alleged that anti-Pakistan militant elements operating from Afghan territory receive support despite international commitments that Afghan soil would not be used against other countries. He further alleged that various militant groups are linked to a common Indian intelligence network.

The chief minister noted that Balochistan’s vast geography, long borders, mountainous terrain, and scattered population make counterterrorism operations more complex. However, he said security forces continue to operate within the law while prioritizing the protection of civilians.

Bugti stressed that the state is committed to safeguarding innocent lives, unlike terrorist groups that use civilians as human shields. He also expressed concern over attempts by some political circles to associate terrorist incidents with the state, urging political parties to prioritize national interests over political differences.

He reiterated that while negotiations with armed terrorist organizations have not proven successful anywhere in the world, dialogue with political parties, elected representatives, and the youth remains essential to resolve political, administrative, and social issues through consensus.

The chief minister added that the government believes in pursuing economic growth, good governance, and an effective security strategy simultaneously, while calling for national consensus on eliminating corruption, promoting merit, ensuring fair distribution of resources, and implementing electoral reforms.