ISLAMABAD: Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, during a visit to Peshawar on Tuesday, reaffirmed his government’s commitment to resolving all outstanding issues in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP).
Speaking at a representative jirga, the premier announced the formation of a high-powered committee tasked with reviewing and addressing demands presented by KP’s leadership.
The committee will include tribal elders, the KP governor, and Chief Minister Ali Amin Gandapur to formulate actionable recommendations aimed at long-term provincial development and peace.
PM Shehbaz expressed deep respect for the people of KP, acknowledging their historic sacrifices in the fight against terrorism. He pledged that the federal government would give utmost importance to the committee’s recommendations and ensure practical implementation for the benefit of KP’s resilient population.
Support for KP’s Anti-Terrorism Efforts
The prime minister highlighted KP’s key role as the frontline province in the war against terrorism. Since 2010, he said, the province has received Rs700 billion under the National Finance Commission (NFC) Award, specifically allocated for anti-terror operations.
These funds, according to the PM, have helped improve policing, expand the Counter-Terrorism Department, and strengthen the law enforcement framework.
He praised the decision to allocate 1% of the NFC Award to KP, calling it a just move backed by all provinces. Shehbaz Sharif reiterated that the federal government remains committed to supporting KP until terrorism is fully eradicated.
Tribute to KP’s Sacrifices and National Unity
The premier paid homage to the martyrs of the Army Public School tragedy of 2014, vowing that their bravery would be remembered forever. On regional matters, he touched upon the recent Indian aggression, stating that under the leadership of COAS Field Marshal Syed Asim Munir, Pakistan had delivered a powerful and unforgettable response.
Shehbaz also criticized Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, claiming India was left “frustrated and in panic” after Pakistan’s decisive defense. He emphasized Pakistan’s firm stance on the Indus Waters Treaty, making it clear that India cannot unilaterally violate international agreements.
The PM stressed the urgent need to enhance the country’s water storage capacity and accelerate dam projects like Diamer Bhasha and Dasu.
He concluded by thanking the people of KP for their unity and prayers, highlighting that collective strength is the key to overcoming both internal challenges and external threats.
