PM Shehbaz Sharif Reaffirms Commitment to Provincial Development in National Assembly Address

Islamabad: Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has reaffirmed the government's commitment to taking all possible measures for the progress and development of all four provinces. Speaking on the floor of the National Assembly in response to points raised by the Opposition Leader, he agreed that the people of each province have the right on their resources.

According to Radio Pakistan, the Prime Minister highlighted Parliament as the collective forum of elected representatives from all provinces, emphasizing that the people of Balochistan have a rightful share in the Reko Diq project. He recalled the 2010 National Finance Commission Award, noting that Balochistan's share was significantly increased. Additionally, about 73 billion rupees were allocated two years ago for the solarization of agricultural tube-wells in the province. The Gwadar-Chaman dual carriageway is also being completed with federal funding of over 300 billion rupees.

Regarding the fence along the Durand Line, Shehbaz Sharif stated it was erected for security reasons, with the expenditure fully justified. He praised the security forces, law enforcement agencies, and police for their unparalleled sacrifices in fighting terrorism, particularly in Balochistan and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, emphasizing their contributions deserve recognition and respect. The Prime Minister reiterated his offer of dialogue to resolve issues.

As per tradition, Opposition leader in the National Assembly Mahmood Khan Achakzai opened the discussion on the Budget 2026-27, calling for more measures to support the poor and strengthen the agriculture sector. He suggested devising a comprehensive strategy to promote education and highlighted Pakistan's immense tourism potential. Achakzai stressed the need for joint efforts to steer the country forward, extending the opposition's unconditional support to uphold the constitution's sovereignty and the Parliament's sanctity.

Various members of the assembly, including Samina Khalid Ghurki, Naeema Kishwar Khan, and others, shared their proposals and concerns regarding budget allocations, salary increases, and development projects. The discussions emphasized the need for focused attention on improving the nation's economic condition and addressing regional disparities, particularly in Balochistan and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa. The House is scheduled to reconvene on Sunday at 11 in the morning.