Premier visits Command and Staff College and attends Grand Tribal Jirga during day-long Quetta trip
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has accused India of intensifying proxy terrorism activities in Pakistan following its defeat in the “Marka-e-Haq” operation. He pledged that Pakistan will successfully counter all malicious attempts by India and its proxies, including the group Fitna al Hindustan.
Addressing faculty and graduating officers at the Command and Staff College in Quetta on Saturday, the Prime Minister stated that India has turned to indirect aggression after facing setbacks in recent military engagements.
He referred to India’s use of force which was met with a precise Pakistani military response under Operation Bunyanum Marsoos. This operation targeted Indian air assets, ammunition depots, and missile bases along and beyond the Line of Control and formed part of the broader Marka-e-Haq campaign carried out between May 7 and May 10.
PM Shehbaz reaffirmed that Pakistan’s armed forces, fully supported by the nation, stand ready to confront every challenge to the country’s sovereignty and territorial integrity.
“The Pakistani nation remains united. With our faith, determination, and strength, we will overcome every conspiracy plotted by India and its proxies,” he declared.
He praised the Pakistan Armed Forces’ exemplary performance during Operation Bunyanum Marsoos, describing their bravery, professionalism, and sacrifices as a source of great national pride.
The Prime Minister reiterated the government’s unwavering support for the military in fulfilling their constitutional duties and protecting Pakistan from all threats. He also emphasized the need for coordination among all elements of national power to effectively tackle evolving regional and domestic challenges.
On arrival at the Command and Staff College, the Prime Minister was welcomed by Chief of Army Staff Field Marshal Syed Asim Munir, NI (M).
PM Addresses Tribal Jirga, Calls for Dialogue to Resolve Grievances
Before his visit to the military college, the Prime Minister attended the Grand Tribal Jirga in Quetta, thanking tribal elders, lawmakers, and local leaders for their participation in addressing the province’s key challenges, particularly related to law and order.
He hailed Balochistan as the “heart of Pakistan” and praised its people as brave during his speech at the historic jirga.
PM Shehbaz also commended the Pakistan Armed Forces for their courage and professionalism during the recent conflict with India on May 6-7, stating the enemy had suffered a “resounding defeat.” He lauded the unity shown by the people of Balochistan alongside other provinces, standing firmly with the military.
He praised Army Chief Field Marshal Syed Asim Munir for his leadership during what he described as a “short but intense war,” framing it as a revenge for Pakistan’s 1971 defeat.
Recalling Pakistan’s nuclear tests, the Prime Minister said the country responded to India’s five nuclear tests with six of its own, calling this a “moment of great pride.”
Highlighting Balochistan’s historic loyalty, he reminded the audience that the province’s elders were among the first to accept Quaid-e-Azam’s leadership and join Pakistan. He urged that grievances be resolved through dialogue and unity.
Describing terrorists as agents of foreign enemies, PM Shehbaz vowed to defeat their tactics and sought advice on closing any gaps in the government’s response.
He noted Punjab’s voluntary contribution of Rs11 billion from its share under the 2010 NFC Award to support Balochistan, calling it a “spirit of solidarity.”
The Prime Minister announced an allocation of Rs250 billion to Balochistan in the upcoming federal development budget of Rs1 trillion, stressing the importance of transparent utilization of funds.
He mentioned that a recent global drop in oil prices allowed the government to reduce petrol and diesel prices by Rs10 per litre, saving Rs1.5 billion, which will be used to upgrade the N-25 highway, also known as the “bloody highway.”
Acknowledging Balochistan’s vast size and development challenges, PM Shehbaz reiterated the federal government’s commitment to the province’s progress and stability.
