Attempts to impede Balochistan uplift to be foiled: Zardari

President Asif Ali Zardari affirmed on Wednesday that "terrorists operating with foreign support" attempting to impede Balochistan's development would be eliminated "at all costs", according to the President's Office. At a meeting with Balochistan Chief Minister Mir Sarfraz Bugti at the Aiwan-e-Sadr, Zardari emphasized the government's unwavering commitment to preventing terrorism from hindering the province's growth.

He highlighted the importance of strong collaboration between federal and provincial administrations to ensure "peace, development, and public welfare" in Balochistan, which is Pakistan's largest province by area. The President was apprised of the current situation in Balochistan and ongoing developmental efforts during the meeting.

This comes following a series of attacks across the region recently, including the July 28 killing of Deputy Superintendent of Police Murid Bugti in Barkhan district and the July 23 shooting of District and Sessions Judge Abdul Hakeem Kakar and his security guard in Mastung. Balochistan government spokesperson Shahid Rind reported the July 12 murder of five laborers from Punjab in Mashkail, Washuk district, who were working at local shops when armed men attacked.