PESHAWAR(The COW News Digital ) Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Governor Faisal Karim Kundi has declared that combating terrorism and restoring peace in the province remain the government’s top priorities, stressing that development projects may be sacrificed if necessary, but security will not be compromised.
Kundi made the remarks while chairing a meeting of the provincial Apex Committee, which reviewed the law and order situation, counterterrorism measures, the operational capacity of security institutions and development-related matters.
Addressing the meeting, the governor said all relevant institutions were working together to restore peace in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa. He added that the province’s people wanted peace, progress and prosperity, making it essential for government departments and law enforcement agencies to focus on their responsibilities.
The governor said the government was committed to providing a safe and conducive environment for residents across the province. He emphasised that improving the operational capabilities of law enforcement agencies would remain a key component of the counterterrorism strategy.
According to Kundi, the requirements presented by the provincial police and Counter Terrorism Department (CTD) had been met. He reiterated that the government would prioritise security over development expenditure whenever circumstances demanded such a decision.
“Our actions against terrorism will be clearly visible,” the governor said, underlining the administration’s resolve to confront militant threats and strengthen public safety.
Kundi also described Khyber Pakhtunkhwa as a province rich in natural resources and economic potential. However, he maintained that lasting peace was essential to utilise these resources effectively and create opportunities for economic growth and development.
Federal Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi, who also addressed the meeting, said the federal and provincial governments were now on the same page regarding efforts to combat terrorism in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa.
He said the people of the province wanted to be free from terrorism and deserved a peaceful environment. The federal government, he added, would fulfil its responsibilities to support peace and stability in the region.
Naqvi said the government would work to strengthen the provincial police and other law enforcement agencies, highlighting the need to provide Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Police with modern weapons and the equipment required to tackle militant threats effectively.
He acknowledged the sacrifices made by police personnel in the ongoing fight against terrorism, noting that officers continued to lose their lives while performing their duties.
The interior minister said the provincial government would need to take the lead in the counterterrorism campaign, with the federal government providing the necessary support. He expressed confidence that coordinated efforts could help defeat terrorism in the province.
Naqvi also criticised the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) government in the province, saying repeated requests had been made for its participation in the fight against terrorism.
He alleged that the provincial political leadership had previously focused on protests and road blockades rather than fully engaging in counterterrorism efforts. The minister, however, praised the public for maintaining peace.
The Apex Committee meeting highlighted the need for closer coordination between federal and provincial authorities, stronger security institutions and sustained action against militancy.
The officials reiterated that restoring peace would be essential not only to protect citizens but also to unlock Khyber Pakhtunkhwa’s economic potential and ensure sustainable development across the province.
