Prime Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif has emphasized that the rising threat of terrorism in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP) must be brought under control at all costs, while reaffirming the government’s commitment to ensuring that the province receives the same opportunities for peace, development and prosperity as other parts of the country.
The Prime Minister expressed these views during a meeting with Federal Minister for Kashmir Affairs and Gilgit-Baltistan Engineer Amir Muqam, during which matters concerning Azad Jammu and Kashmir (AJK), Gilgit-Baltistan (GB) and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa were discussed in detail.
During the meeting, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif paid tribute to the people of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa for their longstanding sacrifices in the fight against terrorism. The Prime Minister underscored that the people of KP have endured significant challenges and made immense sacrifices for the country’s security and stability. He stressed that their sacrifices are deeply valued and that ensuring lasting peace in the province remains a key priority of the government.
Expressing concern over the continuing threat of terrorism, the Prime Minister stated that the growing incidence of terrorism in KP must be stopped at all costs. He further emphasized that the government’s objective extends beyond countering the immediate security threat, with a broader vision of creating conditions in which the people of KP can benefit from sustained economic growth, improved public services and greater development opportunities. Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif reiterated that the government’s aspiration is to see Khyber Pakhtunkhwa develop at the same pace as other parts of Pakistan.
He stressed the importance of creating an environment of peace and stability as a foundation for economic activity, investment, employment and improved living standards. The Prime Minister’s remarks highlighted the close connection between security and development, with lasting peace regarded as essential for unlocking the province’s economic and social potential.
During the meeting, Federal Minister Engineer Amir Muqam briefed the Prime Minister on ongoing affairs and developments in Azad Jammu and Kashmir and Gilgit-Baltistan. The briefing covered matters relating to governance, development and the welfare of the people in both regions. Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif directed that effective measures should continue to be undertaken to ensure the welfare, development and provision of basic facilities to the people of AJK and GB. He emphasized that improving living standards and ensuring access to essential services must remain central to the government’s development efforts.
The meeting underscored the government’s broader approach of linking security, stability and development. While addressing the security challenge in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, the Prime Minister reaffirmed that the sacrifices of the province’s people would not be overlooked. At the same time, his emphasis on development reflected the government’s stated objective of ensuring that peace and stability translate into tangible improvements in the lives of citizens.
The government remains committed to working toward a secure and prosperous Khyber Pakhtunkhwa while continuing development and welfare initiatives in Azad Jammu and Kashmir and Gilgit-Baltistan.
