QUETTA (MNN); Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz on Tuesday announced Rs10 billion in financial assistance for security forces operating in Balochistan, reaffirming Punjab’s commitment to peace, stability and counterterrorism efforts in the province.
The announcement was made during her visit to Quetta, where she attended a ceremony at the Frontier Corps Headquarters. The visit followed coordinated terrorist attacks carried out on January 31 across 12 towns in Balochistan, including Quetta, Mastung, Nushki, Dalbandin, Kharan, Panjgur, Tump, Gwadar and Pasni, which targeted civilians and security installations.
According to the Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR), security forces later launched Operation Raddul Fitna-1, eliminating 216 India-sponsored terrorists during multiple intelligence-based operations and clearance actions. The operation, however, also resulted in the martyrdom of 36 civilians, including women and children, as well as 22 personnel from the security and law enforcement agencies.
During a meeting with Balochistan Chief Minister Mir Sarfraz Bugti, Maryam Nawaz said the financial assistance was aimed at further strengthening security operations and supporting personnel deployed in the province.
Earlier, upon her arrival at the Chief Minister’s Secretariat in Quetta, the Punjab chief minister was warmly received by CM Bugti, members of the provincial cabinet and lawmakers.
Addressing the media, Maryam Nawaz said national unity was essential to defeat terrorism and overcome security and development challenges. She described the visit as her first to Balochistan as chief minister and praised the people of the province for their loyalty and commitment to Pakistan.
She assured that the Punjab government would extend all possible support to Balochistan and place its resources and services at the province’s disposal.
“Terrorism can only be defeated through unity. Punjab stands shoulder to shoulder with the people and government of Balochistan,” she said.
Expressing hope for peace, stability and prosperity, she offered prayers for the province’s progress and thanked the governor and chief minister for the warm welcome. She also praised CM Bugti for managing provincial affairs with courage under challenging circumstances.
“We want Balochistan to become a centre of peace and happiness, and it will be an honour to serve the people of this province,” she said, adding that Punjab would fully cooperate in efforts against extremist elements and security threats.
In his remarks, Chief Minister Mir Sarfraz Bugti welcomed Maryam Nawaz and thanked her for the visit. He said all provinces were united for peace, stability and public welfare, and termed Punjab’s support in security matters as positive and encouraging.
