ISLAMABAD(The COW News Digital) Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has stressed the need to stop the rising threat of terrorism in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa at all costs, saying the people of the province have made significant sacrifices in the fight against militancy.
The prime minister made the remarks during a meeting with Federal Minister for Kashmir Affairs and Gilgit-Baltistan Engineer Amir Muqam in Islamabad. The meeting focused on matters concerning Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Azad Jammu and Kashmir (AJK), and Gilgit-Baltistan.
During the meeting, Prime Minister Shehbaz said the federal government deeply valued the sacrifices made by the people of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa in combating terrorism. He emphasized that the growing threat of militancy in the province must be addressed effectively.
“We want Khyber Pakhtunkhwa to develop like other parts of the country,” the prime minister said, according to the details of the meeting.
The remarks come as security concerns remain a major challenge for Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, where security personnel and civilians have faced repeated attacks in recent years. The province has remained at the center of Pakistan’s efforts to counter militant violence and strengthen internal security.
Prime Minister Shehbaz also directed the authorities to continue effective measures aimed at improving the welfare and development of the people of AJK and Gilgit-Baltistan.
During the meeting, Minister Amir Muqam briefed the prime minister on ongoing matters and developments in Azad Jammu and Kashmir and Gilgit-Baltistan. The two sides also discussed issues related to Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and the needs of people living in the respective regions.
The prime minister said the development and prosperity of AJK and Gilgit-Baltistan were among the government’s priorities. He instructed relevant authorities to maintain efforts to provide basic facilities and improve living conditions for residents.
The government has repeatedly highlighted the need for balanced development across the country, particularly in regions affected by insecurity and economic challenges. Khyber Pakhtunkhwa has faced additional pressures due to terrorism, while AJK and Gilgit-Baltistan have their own development and infrastructure requirements.
The meeting took place a day after Prime Minister Shehbaz offered conditional talks to Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI), calling for an end to protests and sit-ins before negotiations could proceed.
The prime minister said the government remained willing to engage in dialogue but maintained that protests and sit-ins should be brought to an end first.
He also expressed regret that previous efforts to make negotiations successful had not produced the desired outcome. According to the prime minister, the country was moving toward economic development, but continued protests could negatively affect key sectors of the economy.
Shehbaz warned that prolonged protests and sit-ins could directly affect Pakistan’s economy, particularly exports, imports and the manufacturing sector.
The government has maintained that political stability and economic activity are essential for sustaining development. At the same time, security remains a key concern, particularly in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, where authorities continue to face the challenge of preventing militant attacks while supporting economic and social development.
The prime minister’s latest comments underline the government’s stated intention to address terrorism alongside broader development priorities. Officials say improving security in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa is essential for ensuring that the province can benefit from economic opportunities and public development programmes.
For residents of the province, the government faces the dual challenge of maintaining security and delivering development projects. Prime Minister Shehbaz said the sacrifices of the people of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa would continue to be recognized as the country works to counter terrorism and promote stability.
