News
Wednesday, June 12, 2013
PM calls for reconciliation in BalochistanISLAMABAD: Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif on Tuesday directed Balochistan Chief Minister Dr Abdul Malik Baloch to initiate a process of reconciliation with estranged Baloch elements.
He asked the chief minister to convey his desire for their participation in the national mainstream. The prime minister was talking to Chief Minister Dr Abdul Malik Baloch who called on him at the Prime Minister’s Office. The prime minister expressed the resolve of his government to usher in a new era in Balochistan and work for removal of the past bitterness. He said that his government wanted to start a new era of everlasting love and affection in the province.
Nawaz also congratulated Dr Abdul Malik on his unanimous election as chief minister of Balochistan and assured him that the federal government would extend all possible assistance to his government. Meanwhile, Joint Chiefs of Staff Committee (JCSC) Chairman General Khalid Shamim Wyne called on Prime Minister Nawaz and apprised him about professional matters relating to armed forces. Separately, in a meeting with Chief of the Naval Staff Admiral Muhammad Asif Sandila who called on him, Nawaz said his government attached the highest priority to strengthening the armed forces and adequately equipping them to meet all challenges.
“Ensuring national security is our utmost responsibility and highest priority. All necessary resources will be provided to strengthen Pakistan Navy and enhance its professional capabilities,” Prime Minister Nawaz said, adding that the Pakistan Navy had an important role in defending the maritime boundaries of the country and safeguarding sovereignty in the high seas. Admiral Sandila briefed the prime minister on preparedness and professional matters pertaining to the navy.
Also, Prime Minister Nawaz welcomed Microsoft chief Bill Gates’ offer to provide assistance to Pakistan in controlling diseases. The prime minister was talking to Special Representative of Bill Gates and Melinda Foundation for Afghanistan and Pakistan, Dr Waqar Ajmal. Bill Gates extended his offer for supporting the government of Pakistan in the health sector and extending financial and technical assistance to it as far as possible. Nawaz reiterated the resolve of his government to eradicate diseases from the country and welcomed partners like Bill Gates and Melinda Foundation in achieving this objective.
Dr Waqar Ajmal delivered a letter of Bill Gates, congratulating the prime minister on assumption of his office. He expressed the confidence that the new government in Pakistan would lay special emphasis on immunisation and eradication of fatal diseases including polio. app
Courtesy www.dailytimes.com.pk