Afghan instability directly affects K-P: CM Gandapur | The Express Tribune
Key Takeaways
- Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa's peace is affected by Afghan instability, requiring dialogue with Kabul.
- The provincial government is pursuing economic self-reliance by investing in natural resources like hydropower, oil, and gas.
- Significant governance reforms include digitalization across 29 sectors and prioritizing transparency.
- The government has implemented major public welfare initiatives, including universal Sehat Card coverage and youth startup support.
- Gandapur reiterated demands for fulfilling promises to merged districts and a new NFC Award for equitable resource distribution.
Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa Chief Minister Ali Amin Gandapur addressed participants of the National Security and War Course, asserting that provincial peace is intrinsically linked to stability in Afghanistan, requiring necessary dialogue with Kabul, a proposal the federal government has accepted. He paid tribute to the sacrifices made by security forces against terrorism and detailed his government's strategy of economic self-reliance adopted amidst severe financial and security challenges. Key economic focuses include harnessing hydropower, exploring oil and gas, and developing international-standard tourism zones, alongside prioritizing agriculture and livestock for rural employment. Gandapur also addressed governance reforms through digitalization, the need for dignified repatriation of Afghan refugees, unfulfilled promises regarding merged districts, and the demand for a new NFC Award. Finally, he highlighted major public welfare achievements, such as providing 100% Sehat Card coverage and launching substantial loan and training programs for youth and home construction.
